The proposed legislation, known as the Student Teacher Compensation Act, aims to provide financial support to student teachers in Nebraska, addressing the challenges they face due to the unpaid nature of their teaching practicums. The Act establishes a stipend program administered by the State Department of Education, which will offer a stipend of $4,000 per student-teaching semester to eligible student teachers. To qualify, applicants must be enrolled in an accredited teacher education program, be completing a supervised teaching practicum at a participating school, and demonstrate financial need. The Act also mandates the development of an annual report detailing the implementation and effectiveness of the stipend program.

Additionally, the legislation expresses the intent of the Nebraska Legislature to allocate annual funds for the stipend program and allows the State Department of Education to seek further funding through grants and donations. The State Board of Education is empowered to create rules and regulations necessary for the Act's implementation. The Act is set to become operative on July 1, 2025, but due to the presence of an emergency clause, it will take effect immediately upon passage and approval.