Pennsylvania Expands $10,000 Stipend Program for Student Teachers

The state's new budget includes a $5 million increase for the initiative, which aims to bolster the educator workforce.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:20pm

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A vibrant, high-contrast silkscreen print of stacked textbooks and a teacher's apple repeated in a grid, capturing the essence of the student teacher stipend program through iconic educational imagery.The expanded student teacher stipend program aims to bolster Pennsylvania's educator workforce through financial incentives.Harrisburg Today

The Pennsylvania Student Teacher Support Program is now accepting applications for the 2026-27 school year, providing $10,000 stipends to future educators during their required student teaching assignments. To qualify, recipients must commit to working as a teacher in Pennsylvania for at least three years. The program also offers up to $2,500 for cooperating teachers who mentor and assist these students.

Why it matters

The expansion of this program is a significant investment by the state to address teacher shortages and support the next generation of educators. By offering financial incentives, Pennsylvania aims to encourage more students to complete their teaching degrees and commit to working in the Commonwealth's schools.

The details

To be eligible for the $10,000 stipend, applicants must be enrolled in a Pennsylvania institution of higher education, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, be placed in a non-paid student teaching position, obtain all required clearances, and be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident. Temporary substitute teaching is permitted during the term but must not exceed 10 days. Applications are due by September 15, 2026.

  • The program is accepting applications for the 2026-27 school year.
  • Applications are due by September 15, 2026.

The players

Governor Josh Shapiro

The Governor of Pennsylvania who signed the legislation expanding the student teacher stipend program.

Dr. Carrie Rowe

The Pennsylvania Secretary of Education who noted that the program encourages degree completion and supports the next generation of teachers.

Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA)

The agency that provided stipends to 2,300 student teachers during the 2025-26 cycle from a pool of over 3,500 applicants.

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What they’re saying

“Future educators deserve financial support while they're working in the classroom.”

— Dr. Carrie Rowe, Secretary of Education

What’s next

The Pennsylvania Department of Education will begin accepting applications for the 2026-27 school year on June 1, 2026.

The takeaway

This expanded student teacher stipend program is a significant investment by Pennsylvania to address teacher shortages and support the next generation of educators. By providing financial incentives, the state aims to encourage more students to complete their teaching degrees and commit to working in the Commonwealth's schools.