This bill amends the existing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) teacher grant program to include retired teachers as eligible participants. It expands the definition of "eligible teacher" to encompass individuals who were previously employed as teachers in public schools and are receiving retirement benefits under the Teachers Pension and Annuity Fund. The bill also allows for the inclusion of teachers who may teach other STEM subjects or areas beyond the traditional fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Additionally, it establishes a formula for calculating the remuneration of retired teachers participating in the program.

The bill stipulates that grant funds will be paid directly to eligible teachers rather than through their respective school districts, streamlining the compensation process. It also empowers the Commissioner of Education to contract with a third party for the administration of these payments. To support the implementation of these provisions, the bill appropriates $3.5 million from the General Fund to the Department of Education. Overall, the legislation aims to incentivize both current and retired teachers to engage in teaching STEM subjects, thereby addressing the demand for qualified educators in these critical fields.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:6-137, 18A:6-138, 18A:6-139