Bill > HB272

This bill renames the Alabama Math and Science Teacher Education Program (AMSTEP) to the Loan Assistance in Support of Educators in Alabama (LASEA) Program, expanding its scope beyond just math and science teachers to address broader educator shortages. The program provides loan assistance to eligible educators working in acute shortage areas, with two levels of support: a base support of $7,500 per year and a supplemental support of $3,000 per year for those in high-need locations. To qualify, applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, Alabama residents, graduates of approved education programs, hold a valid Alabama educator certificate, be employed in a public K-12 school, and have outstanding federal student loans. The program will provide loan assistance for up to four consecutive years, with payments made twice annually. Importantly, the bill broadens eligibility to include educators from out-of-state who are employed in Alabama public schools, making it easier to address critical teaching shortages. The Alabama Commission on Higher Education will administer the program, determining acute shortage areas in consultation with the State Department of Education. The changes aim to attract and retain educators in areas with the most significant staffing needs, with the legislation set to take effect on August 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Education

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