Teachers Are Leaders Act of 2025

This bill sets up a “teacher leader” program to help experienced classroom teachers grow into school leaders while they keep teaching. With grant funding, schools and colleges would partner to give one year of training that leads to a teacher leadership credential, plus one or two more years of on‑the‑job support. Teacher leaders could help with curriculum, coach peers, engage families, improve school culture and discipline, support dual‑enrollment classes, and build cultural competence, all to boost student learning.

Teachers chosen must be fully certified, work in a high‑need district, have at least three years of experience, and show strong teaching skills. Grants would pay for two to three years of training and support, and can cover part of a stipend if matched by non‑federal funds. Programs must plan how teacher leaders split time between teaching and leadership, how they’re supported after year one, and how the work continues after the grant. Funding is authorized for 2025 and the next five years; programs may require payback of credential costs if a teacher doesn’t complete their service.

Key points:

• Who is affected: Experienced classroom teachers in high‑need school districts, their students and families, and partner colleges that provide training.
• What changes: New grants for teacher leadership training with a credential; continued coaching for 1–2 more years; possible partial stipends with matching funds; clear selection rules and program plans.
• When: Funding begins in fiscal year 2025 and can continue for five additional years.