The Future Smiles Pilot Program Establishment Amendment Act of 2025 aims to create a two-year pilot program that will provide high school students in the District of Columbia with the necessary coursework and hands-on experience to become Level II Dental Assistants. This program will be implemented during the 2027-2028 and 2028-2029 school years and will involve partnerships with accredited dental educational programs. The initiative is designed to address workforce gaps in the dental field, as a recent survey indicated that many dentists are taking on additional duties due to a shortage of dental assistants. By preparing students for certification as Level II Dental Assistants, the program seeks to enhance the oral healthcare workforce and improve access to dental care for the community.

The bill outlines specific provisions for the pilot program, including classroom instruction by accredited dental schools, competitive compensation for participating students, and coverage of transportation and instructional costs. Additionally, the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) will conduct student satisfaction surveys after each cohort's graduation and publish the results. The legislation also mandates a report summarizing the program's outcomes, including enrollment numbers, completion rates, and employment statistics for graduates. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure the program's effectiveness and its potential for becoming a permanent offering within the District's Career and Technical Education framework.