This bill establishes the Advanced Dyslexia Specialist Endorsement Competitive Scholar Program within the College Student Aid Commission, aimed at providing tuition reimbursement to teachers pursuing an advanced dyslexia specialist endorsement from the Board of Educational Examiners. Eligible teachers must be employed in Iowa schools or area education agencies and actively working towards obtaining the endorsement. The program requires applicants to complete an application for tuition reimbursement, submit annual updates, and provide verification of their teaching status.
The bill outlines that individuals can receive tuition reimbursement for a maximum of two years, with the total reimbursement not exceeding 75% of their endorsement tuition costs. It creates a dedicated fund for the program, appropriating $335,000 for the fiscal year 2025-2026. Additionally, the College Student Aid Commission is tasked with adopting rules for program administration and reporting on its outcomes, including the number of recipients and the amounts disbursed.