IL SB2975

Creates an agriculture education teacher grant program funded by the State Board of Education to reimburse school districts for personal services costs of agriculture education teachers providing 400 additional hours (60 days) annually beyond regular teaching duties.

Allows school districts to apply for grants covering up to 50% of personal services costs for existing agriculture education programs, or up to 100% for the first and second year of new agriculture education programs and 80% for years three and four.

Defines a "new agriculture education program" as one approved by the State Board of Education in a district that has not had such a program for at least 10 years prior to application.

Requires the State Board of Education to create a statewide tracking system for teachers to document additional hours completed and adopt rules necessary to implement the program.

Adds agricultural education to the list of "areas of identified staff shortages" eligible for teacher shortage scholarships under the Higher Education Student Assistance Act.