Modifies the calculation of average daily attendance for early childhood education programs
Impact
Under the new legislation, for the 2022-2023 school year, districts can include these qualifying pupils in their ADA calculations, capped at four percent of the total number of non-qualifying pupils eligible for free and reduced lunch. This percentage gradually increases to ten percent by the 2025-2026 school year. This provision is anticipated to provide additional funding opportunities for early childhood education, potentially leading to improved educational outcomes for young learners who need support.
Summary
Senate Bill 816 proposes significant modifications to the calculation of average daily attendance (ADA) for early childhood education programs in Missouri. Specifically, the bill alters the existing stipulations regarding how qualifying pupils—those aged three to five who are eligible for free and reduced-price lunch—are counted for ADA calculations. The goal is to enhance support for early childhood education programs by allowing them to be included in the attendance metrics of the school districts or charter schools that operate them.
Contention
The bill faced points of contention regarding its implications for educational equity and the standards that must be met by early childhood programs that seek inclusion in ADA calculations. Detractors argue that while the bill ideally aims to increase funding for early childhood education, it might not sufficiently address the quality of these programs. Concerns were raised about ensuring that all programs meet rigorous standards for educator qualifications and child-to-teacher ratios, which are crucial for effective early childhood education.
Additional_points
Moreover, the revisions necessitate mandatory background checks for staff members at these early childhood programs, an effort to ensure child safety and compliance with state educational standards. The bill is seen as a way to balance educational funding with the pressing need for high-quality early learning opportunities, which many advocates believe are foundational for long-term academic success.
Local optional revenue modifications, unemployment costs and family paid medical leave in local optional revenue inclusion, referendum revenue simplification, equalization aid increase, and appropriating money
Local optional revenue modified, revenue for unemployment costs and family paid medical leave included in local optional revenue, referendum revenue simplified, equalization aid increased, and money appropriated.
Requires school district's general fund tax levy account for at least 25 percent of school district's total general fund revenue; provides four-year phase-in.