Provides relative to the funding of virtual charter schools. (gov sig) (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Impact
This legislation is positioned to impact how charter schools are funded, particularly virtual ones, by ensuring that a significant portion of funding is redirected to local school districts. This could potentially limit the financial resources available to virtual charter schools, which may affect their operational capabilities and offerings. By ensuring that local districts receive a portion of the funding, SB149 emphasizes support for traditional public schools while redefining the financial landscape for virtual educational institutions.
Summary
Senate Bill 149 (SB149) aims to modify the funding structure for virtual charter schools in Louisiana. Specifically, the bill stipulates that virtual charter schools will receive a per pupil funding amount that consists of fifty percent of both the state and local portions of the per pupil allocation from the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP) formula. This funding will be calculated for whichever amount is lesser between the district the student resides in or the virtual charter school itself. The remaining fifty percent of both state and local funding will be allocated to the local school district where the student resides.
Sentiment
General sentiment around SB149 appears to be mixed. Supporters of the bill argue that it underscores the importance of local school funding, ensuring that traditional schools have sufficient resources. Conversely, critics may express concerns over the potential limitations this bill imposes on virtual charter schools, which often serve students who might not succeed in conventional settings. The debate highlights an ongoing conversation about balancing support for diverse educational formats with the overarching goal of equitable funding across all school types.
Contention
Notable points of contention centered on the impact of the bill on the operational viability of virtual charter schools. Critics argue that funding cuts to these schools could diminish educational options for families, especially for those who choose virtual learning for reasons such as geographical constraints or individual learning preferences. Proponents, however, may emphasize the need to bring resources back into local districts, positing that all students, regardless of their learning environments, should contribute to the local educational economy.
Provides for charter schools to pay a proportionate share of the local school district's of Teachers' Retirement System UAL payment. (6/30/16) (OR INCREASE SG RV See Note)
Provides with respect to the payment of UAL and other retirement obligations from MFP to determine state-funded per pupil allocation for charter schools, course providers, and scholarship schools (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)