SB 781 Summary

• School districts must reimburse teachers for costs of earning endorsements in critical shortage disciplines listed under the Public School Employees Retirement Act.

• Reimbursement is provided upon earning the endorsement if the teacher commits to working in the school district for at least 3 years after earning it.

• Teachers who voluntarily leave employment within 3 years of receiving reimbursement must repay the full reimbursement amount to the school district.

• School districts must prioritize reimbursement for teachers currently teaching in fields where they lack an endorsement and earn one in that field.

• The Department of Education shall reimburse school districts for reimbursement costs provided under this section, subject to appropriation, with the act taking effect 90 days after enactment.