Bill > HB2242

This bill expands the existing Inspired to Teach Program to include advanced degree scholarship opportunities for public school professionals beyond traditional teacher education. The program now offers scholarships to graduate students pursuing degrees in school counseling, speech pathology, special education, and school administration, providing financial support similar to the existing undergraduate teaching scholarship program. Participants must have an undergraduate degree, meet admission standards, and commit to working in Oklahoma public schools for at least five consecutive years after graduation. Scholarship recipients can receive up to $4,500 in total funding, with annual awards of $1,000 for the first two years and $2,500 for the final year. The bill also modifies employment incentive payments to include these new graduate degree professionals, allowing them to receive up to $4,000 per year for five years (not exceeding $20,000 total) upon satisfactory employment in their respective fields. The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education will manage the program, create a committee to provide recommendations for improving its effectiveness, and require participants to sign contracts outlining their obligations. The bill is set to become effective on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause to emphasize its immediate importance in addressing educational workforce needs.

Budget and Finance

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2242&Session=2600