TEACHERS FOR RURAL SCHOOLS

Amends the School Code, the Board of Higher Education Act, and the Higher Education Student Assistance Act. Requires the Board of Higher Education to establish a position for one Rural Education Coordinator to represent the rural regions of this State, to be based at a recognized educator preparation institution, to (1) provide an emphasis on access to educator preparation programs that focus on rural education, (2) increase rural teacher recruitment, (3) develop an educator pipeline to rural schools and school districts, and (4) provide support mechanisms for rural schools and school districts. Subject to appropriation, requires the Illinois Student Assistance Commission to provide up to 40 financial stipends annually, not to exceed $2,800 per student, to offset tuition costs for individuals in educator preparation programs who agree to student teach in a rural school or school district of the student teacher's choice. Provides that a student teacher who receives a stipend must agree to work in a rural school or school district for at least 2 years. Makes related changes.