Bill > HB3200

This bill modifies a scholarship program for teacher candidates by expanding the eligibility criteria and providing significant funding. Specifically, the bill changes the language from "culturally and linguistically diverse" teacher candidates to those "who have experience with diverse populations," and requires the Higher Education Coordinating Commission to award scholarships of $12,000 per academic year for up to two full-time academic years. The bill defines "diverse" according to existing state law and clarifies that teacher candidates do not include administrative track students. Additionally, the bill allocates at least $10 million from the Statewide Education Initiatives Account to fund these scholarships for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025. The legislation also ensures that students who have already received grants under the previous version of the law remain eligible for renewals. The bill is designated as an emergency measure and will take effect on July 1, 2025, with the goal of supporting and diversifying the teaching workforce by providing financial assistance to teacher candidates with experience working with diverse populations.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3200