Teachers; directing the Office of Educational Quality and Accountability to establish a grant program to provide grants to certain individuals seeking alternative certification. Effective date. Emergency.

SB 186 creates a state grant program to help teachers with emergency or provisional teaching certificates obtain permanent certification. The Office of Educational Quality and Accountability will award up to 1,000 annual grants per year (first-come, first-served) to cover costs for competency exam preparation, exam fees, and part of required professional education hours. School districts must apply on behalf of eligible teachers using a state-prescribed form. The program is funded through a new "Teacher Certification Emergency to Permanency Revolving Fund" established in the state treasury, using state appropriations for ongoing support. The bill takes effect July 1, 2025.