This bill aims to address the teacher shortage in West Virginia by creating a statewide initiative to promote teacher preparation programs specifically targeting underrepresented groups, including minorities, males, and individuals from rural, isolated, or impoverished areas. The West Virginia State Board of Education and county boards of education are tasked with developing initiatives to attract these groups into the teaching profession. The bill outlines the establishment of a scholarship fund, known as the "Scholarship Fund for Underrepresented Groups as Educators," which will receive an annual appropriation of $10 million from the state general revenue fund. The scholarships will be distributed equally among male applicants, minority applicants, and those from isolated or impoverished areas.

Additionally, the bill sets forth definitions, selection criteria, and procedures for the scholarship program. Eligible applicants must be members of an underrepresented group and enrolled in a program leading to certification in education. The bill also includes provisions for scholarship agreements, renewal conditions, and circumstances under which repayment may be required. The overarching goal is to incentivize individuals from these underrepresented groups to pursue careers in education, thereby enhancing the diversity and effectiveness of the teaching workforce in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-2-46, 18-5-52, 18C-10-1, 18C-10-2, 18C-10-3, 18C-10-4, 18C-10-5