Bill > HB2438

This bill establishes the "Supporting Our Early Education Degree Seekers Scholarship" to address the critical shortage of early childhood educators by providing tuition-free community or technical college education for students pursuing eligible early childhood education degrees or certificates, aiming to cover up to 90 credits for those with family incomes between 61% and 150% of the state median family income, provided they commit to working in an early learning center for at least two years after graduation. The scholarship, which will begin in the 2027-28 academic year, will be funded by $10 million annually from the surplus in the Washington advanced college tuition payment program account, with a portion allocated for administrative costs, and will only be disbursed if that account remains adequately funded. To be eligible, students must be Washington residents, not hold a bachelor's degree or higher (though those with an associate's degree may receive up to 30 credits), be enrolled at least part-time, and have completed financial aid applications. The bill also mandates a study on the scholarship's sustainability and impact, with findings to be reported to the legislature by October 2029.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2438&Year=2025&Initiative=false