This bill amends existing laws regarding reimbursement programs for public school teachers and counselors in South Dakota who earn national board certification. Specifically, it modifies sections 13-1-54 and 13-42-26 to establish reimbursement programs for public school counselors and teachers, respectively, covering application and examination fees associated with obtaining their credentials. Both programs will cease accepting new participants after July 1, 2025, and reimbursements will include any available federal funds. Counselors and teachers who achieve certification will also receive an annual stipend of $2,000, split equally between the Department of Education and their employing school district, contingent upon the district's participation.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the Department of Education is not obligated to provide stipends unless the employing school district opts to do so. For teachers, the stipend is guaranteed for the first five years post-certification, with the possibility of continuation for an additional five years if the school district chooses to maintain payments. The Department of Education's contribution during the second five-year period is capped at $1,000, contingent on the school district's stipend payments. The Board of Education Standards is tasked with adopting necessary rules to implement these programs effectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/09/2025: 13-1-54, 13-1-55, 13-42-26
House Appropriations Engrossed, 02/24/2025: 13-1-54, 13-42-26
Enrolled, 03/11/2025: 13-1-54, 13-42-26