Proposed Legislation Encourages Hoosiers to Become Teachers

House Bill 1528 has passed through the House to the Senate.

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INDIANAPOLIS – An Indiana lawmaker has drafted a bill encouraging more Hoosiers to become teachers.

State Rep. Jack Jordon (R-Bremen) authored House Bill 1528, which would allow individuals enrolled in a transition-to-teaching certification program to apply for a Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship.

The scholarship currently provides $7,500 per year for up to four years to students earning a teaching degree and who commit to teaching in Indiana for at least five years.

HB 1528 would allow Hoosiers in a transition-to-teaching certification program to apply for a one-time scholarship up to $10,000.

Applicants pursuing the certification would need to have a bachelor’s degree, agree to obtain an initial practitioner license and teach in an Indiana school corporation for at least five years to be eligible for the scholarship.

"These scholarships help students pursue their passion for teaching and provide assistance for related expenses," Jordan said. "We want to continue supporting Hoosiers who stay in Indiana and pursue a rewarding and critical career in education." 

HB 1528 was unanimously voted through the House, and moves to the Senate for further consideration.