Illinois House passes bill that would give student teachers a stipend

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) — The Illinois House of Representatives passed a bill that would give student teachers a $10,000 stipend per semester.

Rep. Barbara Hernandez (D-Aurora) explained to the House Higher Education Committee that there are currently 5,400 student teachers across the state, according to WAND . Supporters in the House expect the stipend program to cost between $54-$60 million.

“Student teachers who receive payment under this program can also purchase service credit for student teaching, aligning with what is allowable for student teachers who are paid by the district,” Hernandez said.

The bill would also provide $2,000 per semester to eligible teachers via the State Board of Education.

The bill’s sponsor is not requiring any money to be set aside for it right away because the budget is tight this year, but she will be trying to get money for it in 2025.

“Because we are asking for 68 million dollars to be fully funding the entire program, it is a little above what people might want to put in for this year,” said Hernandez. “So this is something we are going to be working on for next year.”

The bill would still need to pass the Senate before it could be signed into law. By giving students a stipend, Hernandez feels more people will be willing to go to school to become teachers.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports.