Amends SL 2016-94, Section 8.29, to provide that, notwithstanding GS 115C-310, teachers' assistants in the pilot program for teachers' assistants obtaining college degrees in pursuit of teacher licensure will continue to receive salary and benefits while student teaching in a local school administrative unit.

Further authorizes the funds for teachers' assistants awarded under the program to be also used for books and materials for the teacher to attend an educator preparation program at an institution of higher education (currently only authorized for tuition and fees). Provides that the local board of education must provide 10% of the award amount to the teacher assistant to cover the cost of required books and materials, and requires for a teachers' assistant who withdraws from the institution of higher education or is terminated by the school board to return the funds awarded on a pro rata basis.

Effective July 1, 2017, and applies to awards given on or after that date.