Ryan Helps Pass Bill to Pay Stipend to Student Teachers, Address Illinois Teacher Shortage

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Illinois student teachers would receive a stipend for their work under a measure passed by state Rep. Rick Ryan, D-Evergreen Park, addressing Illinois’ teacher shortage and removing a financial barrier that prevents many from pursuing teaching as a career.

“One of the major challenges facing Illinois schools is a shortage of qualified teachers. By offering financial assistance to students, we will broaden the pool of potential educators to include everyone with a passion for teaching, even if they cannot afford to work without pay,” Ryan said. “Many of these teachers will have opportunities to stay in their communities to help contribute to the same schools that they went to as students. This is an important step in building Illinois kids the strongest education system in the country and giving the best possible preparation for a competitive job market.”

Ryan has helped Illinois take major steps in education during his time as a legislator, and House Bill 1375 marks more progress. The program will allocate up to $10,000 per semester for eligible student teachers for up to two consecutive semesters. Stipends for teachers mentoring student teachers will be up to $2,000 per semester.

House Bill 1375 received bipartisan support in the House and will soon be heard in the Senate.

“I was lucky enough to attend a great high school with dedicated teachers who helped me excel,” Ryan said. “One of my chief goals as a lawmaker is to help more kids reap the benefits of experiences like that by continuing to make our neighborhood a great place to live.”