Bill > HR5476

This bill establishes a federal grant program to support the recruitment and retention of paraprofessionals (classroom support staff who work alongside teachers) in public schools and preschool programs. The Secretary of Education would allocate funds to state educational agencies based on their previous year's federal education funding, with each state receiving a proportional share. States can use up to 5% of their allocation for administrative purposes and must distribute the remaining funds through competitive subgrants to eligible entities like local educational agencies or educational service agencies. Priority will be given to entities serving schools in low-income areas or rural communities. Subgrants can be used for activities such as creating mentorship programs for paraprofessionals, developing professional development opportunities, helping paraprofessionals obtain specialized certifications (like special education or English learner certificates), and increasing wages or offering bonus pay. Each state receiving a grant must submit an annual report detailing paraprofessional pay baselines, employment data, and strategies for addressing staff shortages. The bill authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 2026-2030 and ensures that the grant program does not interfere with existing collective bargaining agreements or labor laws.

Education

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5476/all-info