Alabama Commission on Higher Education; authorized to award loan assistance to athletic trainers under Alabama Math and Science Teacher Education Program

Senate Bill 184 expands the existing Alabama Math and Science Teacher Education Program (AMSTEP) to include licensed athletic trainers. This bill authorizes the Alabama Commission on Higher Education to award loan assistance to eligible athletic trainers working in K-12 schools or higher education institutions within the state. To qualify, athletic trainers must hold an approved master's degree, be licensed in Alabama, provide at least 20 hours of athletic training services per week, and have outstanding federal student loans. Eligible individuals can receive up to $7,500 per year for a maximum of four consecutive years to help repay their student loan debt.