Bill > HB205

This bill, known as the Future Educators Support Act, establishes several provisions to support student teachers and address teacher staffing challenges in Ohio. The bill requires the Department of Education and Workforce to conduct an annual online staffing survey for school districts, collecting detailed data on vacant teaching positions, positions filled by long-term substitutes, teachers with alternative licenses, and other staffing metrics. The survey aims to provide insights into educator workforce needs. The bill also introduces financial support for student teachers, allowing the department to provide cost-of-living stipends and test fee waivers. Public school districts are encouraged to either pay student teachers at least minimum wage or offer health care benefits. Additionally, state higher education institutions may waive tuition for students during their student teaching period. The bill further directs the Department of Job and Family Services to include teachers on the list of in-demand jobs. By implementing these measures, the bill seeks to attract and support new educators, address teacher shortages, and provide more comprehensive data on the educational workforce in Ohio.

Education

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb205