The bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to establish the Early Childhood Educator Tuition Assistance Program and the Early Childhood Educator Tuition Assistance Fund. The new Article XIX-I outlines the definitions, eligibility criteria, and operational framework for the program, which aims to provide grants for tuition assistance to individuals pursuing an associate degree or certification in early childhood education. Eligible applicants must meet specific income requirements, be enrolled in a minimum number of credit hours, have applied for other financial aid, and maintain employment in an approved early childhood education program.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Early Childhood Educator Tuition Assistance Fund within the State Treasury to support the program financially. The fund will consist of annual appropriations from the General Fund, federal funds, and other legislative appropriations. The agency responsible for the program is required to publish annual reports detailing student enrollment, retention rates, and wage data, ensuring transparency and accountability in the program's effectiveness. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 801 (Mar 03, 2025): P.L.30, No.14
Printer's No. 0801: P.L.30, No.14