Bill > HB625

This bill establishes a nationally certified school psychologist incentive program within Hawaii's Department of Education to recognize and support exemplary school psychologists. The program offers several financial incentives for school psychologists who obtain the Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential from the National Association of School Psychologists, including an annual bonus for maintaining current national certification, a reimbursement for certification application fees, and an additional annual bonus for psychologists working in hard-to-fill areas. The specific dollar amounts for these bonuses are not specified in the bill text (indicated by blank spaces), but the program aims to encourage professional development and provide additional support for school psychologists, particularly in underserved regions. The bill appropriates funding for this program for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, and allows the Department of Education to adopt rules as necessary to implement the program. The legislation is designed to attract and retain qualified school psychologists by offering financial recognition for their professional achievements and service in challenging educational environments.

Business and Industry, Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=625&year=2025