The Future Educators Support Act aims to provide financial support and incentives for individuals pursuing careers in education, particularly those enrolled in teacher preparation programs. The bill introduces several new provisions, including the establishment of a cost-of-living stipend for student teachers, which can be received alongside payments from school districts. Additionally, it mandates that the state board of education offer test fee reimbursements based on financial need. Public school districts are also authorized to pay student teachers a wage that meets specific legal standards and to provide them with health care benefits equivalent to those offered to regular teachers.
Furthermore, the act allows state institutions of higher education to implement lower differential tuition rates or waive certain fees for students in teacher preparation programs during their student teaching or similar field experiences. Lastly, the bill requires the department of job and family services to update the list of in-demand jobs to include teaching positions, thereby recognizing the critical need for educators in the workforce.