AN ACT to provide an appropriation to the department of public instruction for the paraprofessional-to-teacher program.
Impact
The enactment of SB2032 is expected to have a significant positive impact on the state's educational landscape. By facilitating the transition of paraprofessionals into certified teaching positions, the bill seeks to enrich the quality of education and ensure that classrooms are staffed with qualified educators. This move aligns with broader efforts to improve educational outcomes and alleviate teacher shortages, which have been a concern for many schools, especially in rural areas. The program's design encourages the utilization of existing personnel who are already familiar with the school environment and students, potentially leading to better retention rates among new teachers.
Summary
Senate Bill 2032, also known as the Paraprofessional-to-Teacher Program, aims to enhance the educational workforce in North Dakota by providing funding to support paraprofessionals pursuing teacher qualifications. The bill appropriates a total of $3,000,000 from the state's general fund to the Department of Public Instruction for grants to accredited institutions of higher education. This financial support is aimed at helping paraprofessionals transition into teaching roles, addressing the teacher shortage faced by many districts in the state. The funding specifically caters to tuition and scholarships, with up to $20,000 available for each qualifying institution for startup and administrative costs.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment around SB2032 appears to be supportive, particularly among education advocates and policymakers who recognize the necessity of addressing the teacher shortage. Many view the bill as a proactive step towards enhancing the educational workforce and improving student outcomes. However, there may be some contention regarding the effectiveness of the funding distribution and whether it will adequately meet the needs of all participating institutions and paraprofessionals. Nonetheless, the prevailing opinion is that the bill contributes positively to the education sector in North Dakota.
Contention
While SB2032 has garnered considerable support, points of contention may arise around the implementation and administration of the program. Critics may question the adequacy of the allocated funds in addressing the varying needs of different educational institutions or the criteria used to determine which paraprofessionals qualify for the program. Moreover, there could be debates on ensuring that the program is accessible to a diverse group of candidates, thereby maximizing its potential to influence the quality of education across all communities in North Dakota.
The salary of the superintendent of public instruction and administrative cost-sharing; to provide for a transfer; to provide a report; to provide an exemption; and to provide an effective date.
A pilot program to provide grants to schools that provide instruction in a foreign language to students in kindergarten through grade three; and to provide an appropriation.
Mathematics curriculum, professional development, screening and intervention, related administrative rules and reporting requirements, and mathematics instructor competency; to provide for a legislative management report; to provide for a department of public instruction mathematics screening pilot program; to provide an appropriation; and to provide an effective date.
The alternatives-to-abortion program; and to provide for an appropriation to the department of health and human services to establish and maintain the alternatives-to-abortion program.
The establishment of an educational reimbursement program; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a legislative management report; to provide an appropriation; and to provide an effective date.