Teacher Diversity and Retention Act

In September 2023, Rep. Ruben Gallego (AZ-03), along with Alma Adams (NC-12), Reps. Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) reintroduced the Teacher Diversity and Retention Act, to invest in and expand America’s teacher workforce.

The Teacher Diversity and Retention Act would authorize two grant programs to fortify teacher recruitment and training programs. The first would provide an infusion of funds for teacher training programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), and other Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). The second would expand teacher preparation programs that provide dual certification in special education, social and emotional learning competencies, and behavior management so that teaching candidates are better prepared to meet the needs of all students.

This bill Establishes the Honorable Augustus F. Hawkins Centers of Excellence, which would be responsible for developing and implementing programs to recruit, train, and support teachers of color. Provides funding for the Honorable Augustus F. Hawkins Centers of Excellence

Full text of this legislation can be found here.