DE HB178

Establishes a year-long residency program to increase retention and diversity of quality educators in Delaware public schools, where residents work directly with students under an expert teacher while pursuing education credentials.

Department of Education shall develop a competitive grant process to support districts and charter schools partnering with educator preparation programs, with appropriations remaining available for disbursement rather than reverting to the General Fund.

Awards funding on at least a 15-month basis (July 1 through September 30 of the following year) and declares awards for upcoming fiscal year(s) by January prior; funds may support resident stipends, benefits, substitutes, cooperating teacher stipends, and professional development.

Grant applications must include partnership details, resident recruitment with cultural competency focus, cooperating teacher selection and support, data collection plans, and sustainability plans beyond the grant period.

Department shall prioritize applicants recruiting for critical needs areas and placing residents in high-need schools serving low-income or English learner populations; residents must commit to work in qualifying Delaware schools for at least 3 years after earning teaching credentials.