Contact:
Mara Powell
mpowell@kyyouth.org

Statement from Dr. Terry Brooks, executive director of Kentucky Youth Advocates

LOUISVILLE, KY – Recruit, retain, quality, qualified. These foci of a strong workforce – especially among our K-12 educator workforce – means a stronger Commonwealth for our kids. We know that the greatest impact on learning for students is having a well-trained educator in the classroom. With Kentucky’s shortage of teachers, it is time to invest in the recruitment and retention of the quality and qualified members of Kentucky’s teaching profession.

Today, the Kentucky House took the next step in supporting the future of the K-12 workforce with passage of House Bill 377, championed by Representative Kim Banta. This legislation creates a Teacher Recruitment Student Loan Forgiveness Pilot Program and establishes Student-Teacher stipends in eligible programs. By empowering our aspiring educators, we can nurture a high-quality learning environment and alleviate financial burdens as they enter the workforce.

With the unanimous passage of HB 377 by the Kentucky House, we now call on the Senate to prioritize this important piece of legislation in the final days of the 2024 legislative session. We thank Representative Banta for her commitment to investing in and strengthening the Commonwealth’s student-teacher pipeline.

From Kandice Williams, current 2nd grade school teacher in northern Kentucky:
“As a teacher, I’m thrilled to see the passage of House Bill 377, which marks a significant stride towards nurturing and retaining the next generation of educators in Kentucky. This bill not only recognizes the financial challenges faced by aspiring teachers but also offers practical solutions through loan forgiveness and stipends. It’s a beacon of hope for the teaching profession and a clear investment in our educational future.”

Stay up-to-date on Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children priorities and other bills that are good for kids on our Kentucky General Assembly Bill Tracker.

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About Kentucky Youth Advocates
Kentucky Youth Advocates believes all children deserve to be safe, healthy, and secure. As THE independent voice for Kentucky’s children, we work to ensure policymakers create investments and policies that are good for children. Learn more at www.kyyouth.org.