Bill > HB4701

This bill establishes the "West Virginia Math, Science and Special Education Teacher Scholarship Act" to address a shortage of educators in these critical fields and incentivize teachers to remain in West Virginia. The act creates a scholarship program administered by the vice chancellor for administration, offering debt relief to West Virginia certified teachers specializing in math, science, or special education. Teachers employed in public elementary or secondary schools for three years can receive up to $2,000 in debt relief, while those with six years of service can receive up to $4,000, with the total not exceeding $4,000 per teacher. To be eligible, individuals must be U.S. citizens residing in West Virginia for at least one year, hold a master's degree in education with a relevant specialization, fill a qualifying math, science, or special education position, and have outstanding debt to be covered by the scholarship. The program is set to begin on January 1, 2027, and will conclude on January 1, 2037, with funding to be provided through the state budget.

Education

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=4701&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill