Make an appropriation to the Department of Education for the Teach for America grant program.
Impact
The bill explicitly states that the appropriated funds will be utilized to help increase the number of Teach for America teachers from 57 to 100. This expansion is expected to significantly improve educational outcomes for low-income and Native American students in South Dakota. By fostering partnerships with private donors, the bill underscores a shift towards leveraging both public and private resources to address educational disparities, particularly those affecting marginalized communities.
Summary
House Bill 1192 seeks to appropriate $500,000 from the general fund to the South Dakota Department of Education to support the Teach for America grant program. This program is designed to enhance teacher recruitment and placement within public schools that serve a significant number of low-income students. The bill envisions collaboration with private contributors to expand the reach of Teach for America, thereby allowing a greater number of teachers to be placed in schools, with a specific aim of benefiting Native American students both on reservations and statewide.
Contention
Discussions surrounding the bill may include debates on the effectiveness of alternative teacher recruitment programs like Teach for America. Supporters are likely to argue that enhancing such programs can lead to better educational opportunities for vulnerable populations, while critics may raise concerns regarding the qualifications of alternatively certified teachers. The ongoing reliance on private funding models can also spur discussions on the implications for public education equity and state responsibility in funding education.
Notable_points
Lastly, the bill amends section 13-55-62 to further entrench the Teach for America grant program within state law. The allocation of funds is scheduled to conclude by June 30, 2027, with any unspent funds reverting to the state's general fund. This time-bound appropriation highlights a commitment to rigor in monitoring the financial contributions toward this program.