FL H0953

Creates the Growing Teachers from Within Pilot Program within the Department of Education to help school district employees obtain teaching certificates and address teacher shortages, contingent upon legislative appropriation.

Requires school districts to apply by October 1, 2023, with the Commissioner of Education selecting up to three districts: one from a county with population under 100,000, one from 100,000-500,000, and one over 500,000.

Eligible employees must be educational support staff or education paraprofessionals with an associate degree or 60 completed semester credit hours, and must commit to teach in the district for at least 2 years after obtaining certification.

Appropriated funds must establish customized coursework schedules allowing flexibility for employees to complete bachelor's degrees while working, and provide financial support for tuition, credentials, technology, and instructional materials.

Participating districts must submit annual reports by June 1 detailing program implementation and effectiveness as a recruitment and retention tool; program expires June 30, 2026.