Bill > S00519

This bill establishes the Underrepresented Teachers of Tomorrow (UTT) program, designed to attract and retain diverse teachers in schools with teacher shortages. The program creates a grant system for school districts to recruit underrepresented certified teachers, defined as educators who have participated in specific educational partnership initiatives like My Brother's Keeper or Teacher Opportunity Corps. School districts can apply for competitive grants to support teacher recruitment, with no single district receiving more than 60% of available funds. The program includes a key incentive component offering eligible teachers up to $10,000 annually for up to four years, contingent on a service commitment to teach in an underrepresented school. Teachers must be first-time certified teachers in their district and agree to teach for at least one year in an underrepresented school. Award recipients can use funds to reimburse educational costs, including student loans, and must sign an agreement outlining their service obligation, with potential repayment required if they do not complete their commitment. The Commissioner of Education will annually report to the governor and legislature on the program's effectiveness, including grant details and the number of awards granted. The bill aims to address teacher diversity and retention challenges in schools with significant staffing needs.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S519