Iowa Senate Bill SF2019

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/24
• Refer: 1/8/24

Caption

A bill for an act establishing the national FFA organization advisors competitive grant program within the department of education and making appropriations.

Impact

According to the bill, the Department of Education is mandated to set up the grant program and adopt rules for its administration, including establishing eligibility criteria and application processes. A significant aspect of this funding initiative is that it is to be used to supplement, rather than supplant, existing public funding received by school districts for similar purposes. This provision aims to ensure that the introduction of these grants enhances current educational funding rather than replacing it.

Summary

Senate File 2019, introduced by Senator Cournoyer, aims to establish a national FFA organization advisors competitive grant program within the Iowa Department of Education. This program is designed to provide financial grants to school districts, assisting them with the costs associated with employing teachers who facilitate programs related to the national FFA organization. The intent is to offset the expenses that arise from extended contract hours required of these teachers due to their involvement with FFA activities.

Contention

The establishment of a specific fund for the national FFA advisors competitive grant program requires an annual appropriation of $500,000 from the state's general fund, starting with the fiscal year 2024-2025. While proponents argue that this initiative will bolster agricultural education and support teachers involved with the FFA, discussions may arise regarding budget priorities and the allocation of state resources, as this additional funding could be viewed as competing with other education programs. Questions about the effectiveness of such grants in improving educational outcomes for students involved in the FFA may also surface.

Additional_notes

This bill reflects a broader commitment to enhancing agricultural education at the state level and recognizes the significant time and effort that teachers dedicate to FFA programs. It is expected to facilitate greater engagement in extracurricular activities related to agriculture, which could have long-term benefits for students pursuing careers in this field.