Iowa Senate Bill SF246

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/8/23
• Refer: 2/9/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to certain amounts of school district funding for programs for at-risk students, secondary students who attend alternative programs or alternative schools, or returning dropouts and dropout prevention, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly SF 53.)

Impact

Starting from the fiscal year 2023, the bill gradually increases the limit from 2.5% to 5% by 2027. In 2023, the ratio will be set at 3%, increasing by 0.5% each subsequent year until it reaches a maximum of 5% from 2027 onward. This change is expected to enhance the capacity of schools to support students who are at risk of failure, expand services for dropouts, and improve dropout prevention measures. The immediate implications of this approach are seen as beneficial for school districts that have historically struggled with lower funding for such programs.

Summary

Senate File 246 (SF246) relates to funding provisions for Iowa school districts, specifically targeting programs for at-risk students, those attending alternative schools, and dropout prevention efforts. The bill proposes amendments to the existing laws that cap the ratio of the modified supplemental amount compared to the total regular program cost of school districts. It aims to incrementally increase this cap over several fiscal years, providing more financial flexibility to districts dealing with unique educational challenges faced by specific student populations.

Contention

While the bill is generally viewed as a positive step towards improving educational opportunities for at-risk students, discussions surrounding it may reflect concerns about the adequacy of such funding, and whether the increases fulfil the actual needs of schools. There are likely debates about the effectiveness and efficiency of allocating funds to specific programs, especially in light of varying community needs and the level of support required across different districts. The bill's passage through the Senate indicates strong bipartisan support for educational funding reform, but future discussions may continue to deliberate on the most effective means for meeting the needs of all students.