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Bill Summary · SB 182

Summary of SB 182: School Teacher Training and Mentoring Program

Bill Number: SB 182
Introduced: October 14, 2025
Status: Referred to Education Pre-K - 12; Appropriations Committee on Pre-K - 12 Education; Fiscal Policy
Effective Date: July 1, 2026
Sponsor: Senator Jones

Purpose and Intent

SB 182 aims to establish the School Teacher Training and Mentoring Program within the Florida Department of Education. The primary goal of this program is to enhance the effectiveness of classroom teachers, improve student achievement, and foster better classroom management in public schools across Florida.

Key Provisions

  1. Program Establishment:

    • The program is created under Section 1012.988 of the Florida Statutes.
    • It focuses on pairing experienced teachers with less experienced teachers to provide mentorship.

  2. Mentorship Stipends:

    • The Department of Education will provide funding to school districts to offer stipends of $2,000 to mentors.
    • Each school district is expected to establish three mentors at each school, with the possibility of allocating more if needed.

  3. Mentor Eligibility:

    • Mentors must be either retired teachers rated as highly effective or current highly effective teachers.
    • Mentors will support new teachers and those rated as needing improvement or struggling with classroom management.

  4. Program Structure:

    • The program will include a structured contract outlining responsibilities and goals for both mentors and mentees.
    • Mentoring services will last for six months, with specific session requirements:
      • First Month: Two 90-minute sessions.
      • Second and Third Months: Two 60-minute sessions each month.
      • Fourth to Sixth Months: One 60-minute session each month.

  5. Session Content:

    • Initial sessions will focus on introductions, goal setting, and skills assessment.
    • Subsequent sessions will review progress and address any challenges faced by the mentee.

  6. Rule Adoption:

    • The State Board of Education is authorized to adopt rules necessary for the administration of the program.

Impact

  • Who Will Be Affected:

    • New classroom teachers, teachers rated as needing improvement, and teachers struggling with classroom management will directly benefit from mentorship.
    • School districts will receive funding to support the program, impacting their professional development initiatives.

  • Funding Considerations:

    • The program's implementation is subject to appropriations, meaning its success will depend on the availability of state funds.

Conclusion

SB 182 represents a significant investment in teacher development and student success in Florida's public schools. By establishing a structured mentoring program, the bill seeks to enhance teaching quality and ultimately improve educational outcomes for students. The program is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, pending legislative approval and funding allocation.

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

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