Substitute House Bill No. 5033 aims to implement the Governor's budget recommendations for education by making several amendments to existing education laws. Notably, the bill repeals the requirement for the State Department of Education (SDE) to consult with EASTCONN when creating a data system for local and regional school districts to manage the Teacher Education and Mentoring Program (TEAM). This data system will provide resources and record-keeping tools for districts, including templates for planning and tracking teacher progress. Additionally, the bill specifies that four existing grant programs, including those for special education training and support services for students with trauma, must operate within available appropriations, ensuring that funding is contingent on budget availability.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a teacher apprenticeship program to be administered by the SDE starting in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, also within available appropriations. This program aims to support the professional development of educators and paraeducators. The changes made by this bill are primarily procedural and clarifying in nature, with no significant fiscal impact anticipated, as they do not introduce new funding requirements but rather adjust existing frameworks to align with budgetary constraints. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Governor's Bill: