This bill mandates that both regents institutions and accredited private institutions in Iowa waive tuition and mandatory fees for students during their student teaching semester. Specifically, it amends Section 256.183 of the Code 2026 to include a new paragraph that requires institutions to adopt this waiver policy. Additionally, the bill defines "student teaching" as a full-time clinical instructional experience in the final year of a teacher preparation program, where the student teacher is responsible for planning, instruction, and assessment under the supervision of a licensed cooperating teacher.

Furthermore, the bill adds a new subsection to Section 262.9, directing the state board of regents to ensure that institutions under its control implement this tuition waiver policy. Accredited private institutions are also required to adopt this policy as a condition for participation in the Iowa tuition grants program. This legislation aims to alleviate the financial burden on student teachers in Iowa, thereby encouraging more individuals to pursue careers in education.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256.183, 262.9