DE HB480

Replaces professional incentive loan programs with career-based scholarships for high-demand fields (reviewed every 5 years) and educator support scholarships for teachers and specialists in areas of need identified by the Office.

Establishes new loan repayment programs for speech-language pathologists and mental health professionals (school counselors, psychologists, social workers) employed in Delaware public schools, with payments up to $5,000 annually and maximum 3 lifetime payments.

Creates High Needs Educator Student Loan Payment Program providing $1,000-$2,000 annual awards to educators in shortage certification areas or high-need schools, with priority given to those in critical need areas and greatest financial need.

Continues need-based Scholarship Incentive Program (ScIP) for students with demonstrated financial need and merit-based memorial scholarships for University of Delaware and Delaware State University students.

Renames "Delaware College Investment Plan" to "DE529 Education Savings Plan" and repeals unfunded programs (Education Endowment Fund and Michael C. Ferguson Achievement Awards); transfers administration of Ivyane D.F. Davis Memorial Scholarship to Child Protection Accountability Commission.