GA SR545

Creates a six-member Senate Paid Student Teaching Study Committee to examine the feasibility of compensating student teachers in Georgia, with four members appointed by the majority caucus leader and two by the minority caucus leader

Committee will study financial challenges faced by student teachers who currently work 40+ hours weekly without pay while paying tuition, and the impact on educator recruitment and retention, particularly in high-need and rural schools

Study scope includes cost estimates and funding mechanisms for a statewide paid student teaching program, as well as best practices from other states with successful paid initiatives

Legislative members may receive allowances for up to five days unless additional days are authorized, funded through Senate appropriations

Committee must file a report with findings and proposed legislation recommendations before December 1, 2026, when the committee will be abolished