Bill > HB3528

This bill, known as the Affordable Student Teaching Act, amends the Illinois School Code to prohibit institutions of higher education from requiring student teaching experiences to be unpaid for preservice teachers. Currently, student teachers often complete their teaching practicums without compensation, which can create financial hardship for education students. The bill ensures that student teachers have the potential to earn a salary during their required teaching placements, making the student teaching requirement more financially accessible. By modifying Sections 21B-20 and 24-8.5 of the School Code, the legislation explicitly states that no higher education institution can mandate unpaid student teaching, thereby giving schools and districts the flexibility to compensate student teachers. The bill takes effect immediately upon becoming law, which means institutions will need to adjust their student teaching policies to allow for potential compensation. This change could help reduce financial barriers for aspiring teachers and potentially make the teaching profession more attractive to students who cannot afford to work without pay during their professional training period.

Education

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=3528&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104