Kaine Introduces Bill To Tackle Teacher Shortages In Rural Communities

Statement

U.S. Senator Tim Kaine joined Senator Jon Tester to introduce the Rural Educator Support and Training (REST) Act to address teacher workforce shortages in rural communities by providing scholarships, loan forgiveness, and professional development opportunities to educators who commit to work in rural schools.

"Rural communities in Virginia and across the country are struggling to find qualified candidates to fill vacant teaching jobs," said Kaine. "The REST Act would provide young educators with incentives to start their careers in rural schools so that students in every zip code can access a high quality education."

The REST Act would provide scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in education or school administration who commit to at least three years of service at a rural school. Educators who work in a rural school for at least five years can qualify for up to $17,500 in federal loan forgiveness and can receive funding to cover the costs of National Board Certification in order to qualify for a salary increase.

Source