Bill > SB0293

This bill amends the Higher Education Student Assistance Act to extend the Monetary Award Program (MAP) grant eligibility for aspiring educators. Beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year and continuing through 2030-2031, the bill allows students who have already received a baccalaureate degree or completed 135 semester credit hours to receive an additional year of grant assistance. To qualify for this extra year of funding, the applicant must: (1) enroll in a State-approved educator preparation program and (2) commit to teaching in Illinois for a minimum of 3 years within 5 years of receiving their Professional Educator License. If the recipient fails to meet these teaching requirements at any point, they will be required to repay the additional grant assistance to the Commission, with the repayment amount prorated based on the uncompleted portion of their teaching obligation. This provision aims to incentivize individuals to enter the teaching profession in Illinois by providing additional financial support for their educator preparation, while also ensuring accountability through the repayment requirement. The bill takes effect immediately and is designed to help address potential teacher shortages by creating a financial pathway for additional teacher training and recruitment.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=293&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104