The proposed bill establishes the School Teacher Training and Mentoring Program within the Department of Education, as outlined in the newly created section 1012.988 of the Florida Statutes. The program aims to enhance the effectiveness and involvement of classroom teachers, thereby improving student achievement and classroom management in public schools. It provides for the awarding of stipends, amounting to $2,000 each, to retired or current highly effective classroom teachers who serve as mentors to new teachers or those rated as needing improvement. The bill also stipulates that if funds are insufficient, stipends will be prorated accordingly.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific responsibilities for both the Department of Education and school districts, including the establishment of contracts that define the roles of mentors and mentees, as well as the standards for the program based on the University College London Mentoring Handbook. Mentors are required to have no official management relationship with their mentees and must provide guidance while maintaining confidentiality. The mentoring process is structured over six months, with defined session requirements to ensure effective support for mentees. The State Board of Education is authorized to adopt rules for the program's administration, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2026.