Programs to support teacher candidates performing student teaching authorization and appropriation

This bill allocates $20 million in one-time funding for Minnesota's fiscal year 2026 to support teacher candidates during student teaching. It requires nonprofits to provide stipends of at least $15 per hour to candidates completing 12+ weeks of student teaching in approved teacher preparation programs. The stipends are paid directly to students and cannot reduce their existing financial aid. The funds are distributed through grants to nonprofits with experience handling student data, with up to 5% of the grant covering administrative costs.