Bill > SB233

This bill creates the Teacher Shortage Reduction Act, which aims to address Oklahoma's teacher shortage by providing expanded tuition waivers for high school juniors and seniors who declare an intention to become teachers. The bill modifies existing concurrent enrollment laws to offer additional tuition benefits for students who meet specific requirements: they must be eligible for concurrent enrollment and commit to pursuing an undergraduate teacher education program at an Oklahoma public institution and teaching in a public school for three years within ten years of obtaining their bachelor's degree. Under this legislation, eligible students can receive tuition waivers for up to 60 credit hours, subject to funding availability. Students who fail to fulfill their teaching commitment will be required to repay the tuition waiver, though they may request a hardship waiver. The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education will be responsible for establishing the declaration process, creating a repayment schedule, and promulgating rules to implement the program. This bill is part of a broader effort to encourage students to enter the teaching profession and address teacher shortages in Oklahoma, with the tuition waiver serving as an incentive for students to commit to teaching in the state's public schools. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause to emphasize its immediate importance.

Education

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb233&Session=2600