Substitute Senate Bill No. 220, also known as Public Act No. 26-149, focuses on improving student literacy, supporting aspiring educators, incorporating American Sign Language (ASL) into the curriculum, and expanding health benefits for paraeducators. The bill requires the Department of Education to develop guidance for local education boards on implementing multitiered support systems for students struggling with reading, with a report due by January 1, 2028. It also establishes a scholarship program for aspiring educators, which replaces the previous focus on "diverse students" and "alliance districts" with a broader definition that includes any public high school students in the state. Eligible students can receive up to $10,000 annually for teacher preparation programs. Additionally, the bill mandates the identification of teacher shortage areas and the establishment of an ASL education working group to promote ASL instruction in schools.

The bill modifies existing health benefit provisions for paraeducators by creating a subsidy program for those who open health savings accounts or enroll in high deductible health plans, with the subsidy amount determined by the Comptroller. It extends this program to local and regional boards of education that provide health coverage to paraeducators and their dependents, while also including charter schools. The bill repeals certain provisions regarding the fiscal years for these subsidies and requires the Comptroller to calculate the cost of expanding the subsidy program to charter school paraeducators, with a report due by January 1, 2027. Overall, the bill aims to enhance educational opportunities and support for both students and educators in Connecticut.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 10-14t
ED Joint Favorable Substitute Change of Reference: 10-14t
APP Joint Favorable Substitute: 10-14t
File No. 650: 10-14t
Public Act No. 26-149: 10-156ii, 10-8b