Revise teacher stipends for national board certification

This bill increases professional stipends for Montana teachers who hold National Board Certification, with higher amounts for those working in high-poverty or impacted schools. Under the new provisions, eligible teachers in regular assignments receive up to $1,500 annually, while those in high-poverty or impacted schools can receive up to $2,500. The state will fund a portion of these stipends, with school districts required to contribute matching funds to reach the maximum amounts. Payments will be distributed by the superintendent of public instruction to eligible school districts, education cooperatives, the Montana school for the deaf and blind, and correctional facilities. The changes take effect on July 1, 2025, and apply to school years beginning on or after that date.