Lower Bucks Today

On July 11, 2024, Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), along with Representatives Jason Crow (CO-6), Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-5), and Jahana Hayes (CT-5), introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at addressing the national teacher shortage. The Teacher, Principal, and Leader Residency Access Act seeks to allow Federal Work-Study funds to cover costs associated with participating in teacher and principal residency programs. These programs have been shown to improve teacher demand, quality, and retention without adding costs to taxpayers.

The legislation comes in response to a severe nationwide teacher shortage and high turnover rates due to inadequate preparation of teachers. In 2023 alone, over 310,000 teaching positions were underfilled or vacant, particularly in under-resourced schools with high-minority populations.

Modeled after Colorado's PEBC Teacher Residency program, one of the nation's oldest and most respected residency programs, this bill aims to enhance careers in education while prioritizing low-income students who need qualified teachers in subjects ranging from mathematics to English as a second language.

“The success of our next generation hinges upon the guidance and knowledge imparted by our teachers and educational leaders,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “This bipartisan legislation will invest in our education system, provide aspiring educators enriching opportunities for crucial hands-on experience, and build a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to guide our next generation of leaders here in PA-1 and nationwide.”

“As a Dad, I know how important good teachers are to our kids' education – yet communities across the US are facing a severe teacher shortage,” said Congressman Crow. “Grateful to reintroduce my bipartisan Teacher, Principal, and Leader Residency Access Act with Representatives Chavez-DeRemer, Fitzpatrick, and Hayes to bring in and keep good teachers in the classroom.”

“Oregon students are falling behind,” noted Congresswoman Chavez-DeRemer. “The Teacher, Principal, and Leader Residency Access Act is a commonsense proposal that would support aspiring teachers financially while they receive critical on-the-job experience.”

“Teacher residency programs equip new educators with necessary skills and classroom experience,” added Congresswoman Hayes. “By allowing Federal Work-Study funds to help cover these costs, this act enables struggling school districts nationwide to expand their educator pipeline.”

The legislation has garnered endorsements from several prominent organizations including the Public Education & Business Coalition (PEBC) Board; National Education Association (NEA); American Federation of Teachers (AFT); National Center for Teacher Residencies; Colorado Education Association; AASA; The School Superintendents Association; National Association of Elementary School Principals; National Association of Secondary School Principals; and National Rural Education Advocacy Consortium.

Sue Sava, President and CEO of PEBC stated: "High-quality preparation for educators through hands-on clinical residency experiences is transformative for both candidates and their long-term commitment."

Marc Egan from NEA emphasized: "Residency programs are essential tools for recruiting committed educators who feel supported."

Kathlene Campbell from the National Center for Teacher Residencies remarked: "Integrating federal work-study funds into this model makes these programs more accessible."

Congressman Fitzpatrick remains committed to providing resources needed by teachers and families for educational success.