HI HB875

Establishes the Hawaii Teacher Apprenticeship Program to be administered by the Department of Education to support, recruit, develop, and retain teachers in Hawaii public schools.

Program goals include recruiting teachers reflecting student and community diversity, supporting placement in high-need schools, providing last-dollar financial support for prospective teachers enrolled in University of Hawaii teacher education programs, and offering professional learning opportunities for teachers.

Requires participants to commit to teaching in Hawaii public schools for a minimum of three consecutive years following completion of a state-approved teacher education program, with repayment obligations if participants fail to complete the program or meet teaching requirements.

Establishes the Hawaii Teacher Apprenticeship Program Special Fund to receive legislative appropriations and repayments from participants who breach contractual agreements, with funds used to support program goals and related costs.

Appropriates unspecified sums from general revenues for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 to establish and support the program; effective date is June 30, 3000.