SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Legislation on Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could expand a grant program for agriculture education teachers.
School districts can currently apply for a state grant covering 50% of the personal service cost for agriculture teachers.Â
This plan clarifies that teachers should receive 100% of that compensation for working 60 additional days or 400 hours outside their regular teaching duties.
"My district is home to the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences," said Rep. Mary Gill (D-Chicago). "I believe it's critical that we are forward-thinking with supporting agriculture education and strengthening an industry that is crucial for our state's economic well-being."
The measure also adjusts the state's required elected course selection from vocational to a more representative career and technical education.
Senate Bill 1605 passed unanimously out of the House and Senate this spring.
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