This bill proposes an appropriation of $500,000 from the general fund to the Department of Education for the establishment of a student teacher stipend grant program. The funds will be allocated to school districts and department-accredited schools that apply for grants during a specified application period from July 1 to August 15. Each grant awarded may not exceed $5,000 and is intended to support stipends for student teachers placed in the respective school districts or accredited schools during the following school year. To qualify for the grant, individuals must possess either a Student Teacher Permit or an Advanced Student Teacher Permit issued by the Department of Education.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the Department of Education may use up to five percent of the total appropriation for administrative costs related to the grant program. The secretary of the Department of Education is responsible for approving vouchers, while the state auditor will handle the payment of authorized expenditures. Any unspent funds from the appropriation will revert according to existing procedures. The bill is set to take effect on June 30, 2025.