HB 2708-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Provides that the board may select participants based on an application process conducted by the board or the board may utilize selection processes for similar students in cooperation with the professional educator standards board or the office of the superintendent of public instruction.

Declares that priority will be given to individuals seeking certification or an additional endorsement in math, science, technology, or special education.

Provides that, upon documentation of federal student loan indebtedness, the board may enter into agreements with participants to repay all or part of a federal student loan in exchange for teaching service in an approved educational program. The ratio of loan repayment to years of teaching service for the loan repayment program shall be the same as established for the conditional scholarship program.

Creates the future teachers conditional scholarship account in the custody of the state treasurer.

Requires the board to deposit in the account all moneys received for the program. The account shall be self-sustaining and consist of funds appropriated by the legislature for the future teachers conditional scholarship and loan repayment program, private contributions to the program, and receipts from participant repayments.

Provides that, beginning July 1, 2004, the board shall also deposit into the account: (1) All funds from the institution of higher education loan account that are traceable to any conditional scholarship program for teachers or prospective teachers established by the legislature before the effective date of this act; and

(2) All amounts repaid by individuals under any such program.

Repeals RCW 28B.102.070 and RCW 28B.102.905.