House Bill 2879 aims to establish the West Virginia Math & Science Teacher Scholarship Act, which is designed to incentivize and retain educators specializing in mathematics and science within the state. The bill outlines the creation of a scholarship program that will provide financial assistance to certified teachers who meet specific employment criteria. Eligible teachers can receive up to $2,000 in debt relief after three years of service in a STEM position, with the potential for an additional $2,000 after six years of employment. The program will be funded through a designated line item in the state budget.

The legislation includes several eligibility requirements for applicants, such as being a U.S. citizen, a resident of West Virginia for at least one year, and holding a master's degree in education with a specialization in mathematics or science. The program is set to commence in January 2026 and will have a sunset provision, concluding in January 2036. The bill emphasizes the importance of retaining qualified educators in West Virginia to address the current shortage in these critical fields and improve student performance in mathematics and science.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18C-10-1, 18C-10-2, 18C-10-3, 18C-10-4