Establishes a housing stipend program for teachers in rural or underserved areas to improve retention and recruitment.

The bill establishes a teacher workforce housing stipend program to support teacher retention in rural or underserved public schools. Eligible teachers receive a $1,000 monthly stipend for rent, mortgage, or utilities, contingent on a three-year commitment to teaching in these areas. Failure to meet the commitment results in repayment of the stipend. The Department of Education will administer the program and report to the legislature every two years starting in 2028. Funding is appropriated for fiscal year 2026-2027.

Establishes a housing stipend program for teachers in rural or underserved areas to improve retention and recruitment.

The bill establishes a teacher workforce housing stipend program to support teacher retention in rural or underserved public schools. Eligible teachers receive a $1,000 monthly stipend for rent, mortgage, or utilities, contingent on a three-year commitment to teaching in these areas. Failure to meet the commitment results in repayment of the stipend. The Department of Education will administer the program and report to the legislature every two years starting in 2028. Funding is appropriated for fiscal year 2026-2027.