Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia
Department 160 - RULES OF GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Chapter 160-1
Subject 160-1-4 - GRANT PROGRAMS
Rule 160-1-4-.319 - Paraprofessional to Teacher Reimbursement Grant

1. Purpose of the Grant. The purpose of the Paraprofessional to Teacher Reimbursement Grant is to promote the recruitment of teachers in local educational agencies ("LEA") and Georgia Network for Educational and Therapeutic Support ("GNETS") programs across Georgia by providing financial support to paraprofessionals completing their teaching certification through the Georgia Teacher Academy for Preparation Pedagogy ("GaTAPP") program.

2. Terms and Conditions. The grant, which is distributed on a reimbursement basis, is awarded to LEAs and GNETS fiscal agents that complete the grant application and have paraprofessionals who meet specific criteria. The funds allocated to LEAs must be used to provide reimbursable grants, up to $5,000, to paraprofessionals who (1) are enrolled, on or after January 1, 2023, in a GaTAPP program, (2) earn teacher certification through that program, (3) hold a bachelor's degree or higher, (4) are employed in a teaching position by the LEA, and (5) hold a Georgia Provisional Certificate or Permit. To receive grant allocations, grant recipients must submit a request to the Georgia Department of Education ("GaDOE") for reimbursement of the direct cost for previously identified paraprofessional to attend and complete the GaTAPP program.

3. Eligible Recipients. All Georgia LEAs and GNETS fiscal agents that have paraprofessionals who meet the requirements set forth in the application are eligible to receive the grant.

4. Criteria for Award. To receive the grant award, all applicants must meet the terms and conditions which include submitting a request to GaDOE for reimbursement of the direct cost for previously identified paraprofessional to attend and complete the GaTAPP program.

5. Directions and Deadlines for Applying. Eligible applicants must complete and submit the electronic application located online at the GaDOE Competitive Grants webpage. Information regarding the deadline will also be on the GaDOE Competitive Grants webpage. All additional requests for information should be made to esdsupport@doe.k12.ga.us.