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SB 1197

AN ACT CONCERNING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A GRANT PROGRAM FOR THE HIRING OF SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHERS AND PARAEDUCATORS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox

Connecticut creates a grant program to fund hiring of special education teachers and paraeducators, addressing workforce shortages in schools serving students with disabilities.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Education
#grantsbythestate #schoolparaprofessionals #specialeducation #teachers
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Bill Summary · SB 1197

Legislative bill overview

SB 1197 establishes a grant program in Connecticut designed to provide financial support for hiring special education teachers and paraeducators in schools. The bill aims to address workforce shortages in special education by offering incentives or direct funding to educational institutions that recruit and employ qualified professionals in these critical roles.

Why is this important

Special education teacher and paraeducator shortages have created significant staffing challenges nationwide, leading to larger class sizes and reduced service quality for students with disabilities. Connecticut schools face particular recruitment and retention difficulties in these positions due to competitive labor markets and demanding working conditions. This grant program seeks to directly address workforce gaps that impact thousands of students requiring specialized instruction and support.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding source and sustainability: Questions about whether grant funding is permanent or temporary, and how the program will be financed without reducing other educational spending
  • Grant distribution criteria: Disputes over how funds will be allocated among districts (need-based vs. competitive selection), potentially favoring wealthy vs. under-resourced communities
  • Hiring requirements and oversight: Concerns about whether grants require specific qualifications, diversity standards, or performance metrics to ensure accountability and prevent misuse of public funds

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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