The bill amends the State School Aid Act of 1979 to allocate funds for the MI Future Educator Student Teacher Stipend Program, providing $30 million from the state school aid fund and $20 million from the educator fellowship public provider fund for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The funds are designated for eligible educator preparation programs to support student teachers working in school districts or qualifying publicly funded preschool programs in Michigan. The bill outlines the eligibility criteria for student teachers, including enrollment in an educator preparation program, completion of required coursework, and maintaining satisfactory academic progress.

Additionally, the bill specifies that eligible student teachers can receive up to $9,600 per academic semester, with provisions for funding distribution based on Pell grant eligibility and application order. It also clarifies the definitions of eligible educator preparation programs and qualifying publicly funded preschool programs. Notably, the bill removes certain language regarding the requirements for districts and institutions of higher education, streamlining the process for funding allocation and ensuring that funds are forwarded to the eligible student teachers.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 388.1627