NC S643

Increases forgivable loan amounts from $5,000 to $6,000 per semester for students in educator preparation programs, with loans available for up to eight semesters depending on student status

Expands program eligibility from up to 10 selected institutions to all UNC System institutions with approved educator preparation programs, plus up to four private institutions

Removes restrictions limiting the program to specific "qualifying licensure areas" (previously STEM, special education, and elementary education), opening it to all teacher licensure areas

Appropriates $10 million in recurring funds from the General Fund to the NC Teaching Fellows Program Trust Fund for fiscal year 2025-2026

Modifies loan forgiveness terms to allow service at any North Carolina public school, with accelerated forgiveness (6 months credit per year) for teachers at low-performing schools