PREP Act of 2023

The PREP Act of 2023 (S 2369) aims to improve teacher and school leader preparation programs in high-need schools and areas. It authorizes grants for partnerships between institutions of higher education and high-need local educational agencies to develop programs that prepare teachers with specific teaching skills and school leaders with leadership skills. The bill emphasizes creating teaching residency programs where prospective teachers work alongside experienced mentors for a year while earning a master's degree, and requires programs to address teacher shortages in subjects like math, science, and special education. The act also establishes accountability measures, including annual report cards on teacher preparation programs and requirements for programs to recruit diverse candidates and prepare educators to teach in high-need schools.