Scholarships; creating the Fund Students, Not Systems Scholarship Act; providing for eligibility. Effective date. Emergency.
Impact
The bill aims to alter the existing educational landscape by enabling families to redirect funding toward private schooling. Eligible students are defined as residents who can enroll in grades pre-K through twelve in public schools. The scholarships will be based on the total cost of public education funding calculated by the State Department of Education, with the maximum amount being the lesser of the calculated education aid for that year or the tuition of the chosen private school.
Summary
Senate Bill 1420, known as the 'Fund Students, Not Systems Scholarship Act,' establishes a scholarship program for eligible students to attend private schools of their choice. The program allows parents or guardians to request scholarships beginning in the 2022-2023 school year, provided that the students are accepted into a private school that meets specific requirements. This initiative is designed to enhance educational choices available to families while fostering competition among educational institutions in Oklahoma.
Contention
There are notable points of contention surrounding SB1420. Supporters advocate for the bill as a means to enhance parental choice and educational competition, arguing it empowers families to choose the best schooling options for their children. On the other hand, critics express concerns that such a program could divert funds from public education, potentially reducing resources for public schools already facing challenges. Additionally, some question the lack of regulatory oversight on private schools, which may affect accountability and educational standards.
Scholarships; creating the Wellness Scholarship Program Act; providing criteria for students who have health-related concerns. Effective date. Emergency.
Lindsey Nicole Henry Scholarships for Students with Disabilities Program; removing prior public school enrollment requirement; modifying eligibility requirements. Effective date. Emergency.
Lindsey Nicole Henry Scholarships for Students with Disabilities Program; eligibility; modifying discrimination prohibition to which participating private schools must comply. Effective date. Emergency.
Lindsey Nicole Henry Scholarships for Students with Disabilities Program; removing prior public school enrollment requirement; modifying eligibility requirements. Effective date. Emergency.
Schools; Lindsey Nicole Henry Scholarships for Students with Disabilities Program; modifying eligibility requirements for private school to participate in program; effective date.
Schools; Lindsey Nicole Henry Scholarships for Students with Disabilities Program; including additional disability weights in funding calculation if student is reevaluated; effective date.
Scholarships; creating the Wellness Scholarship Program Act; providing criteria for students who have health-related concerns. Effective date. Emergency.