Quality Basic Education Act; Refugee and International Students Equalization (RISE) program; establish
Impact
The implementation of the RISE program will have significant implications for state education laws, specifically within the framework of the QBE (Quality Basic Education) funding formula. The bill introduces a new program weight and a teacher-student ratio specifically for the RISE program, recognizing the unique needs of this demographic. The goal is to ensure that funding is appropriately allocated to accommodate the additional services required for international students, thereby enhancing their educational experience and outcomes.
Summary
House Bill 48 aims to amend the Quality Basic Education Act to establish the Refugee and International Students Equalization (RISE) program. This program is designed to provide funding and wraparound services specifically for eligible international students, which encompasses children born outside the United States who reside in Georgia, regardless of their immigration status. The RISE program seeks to support these students in their elementary and secondary education by providing them access to essential services such as education, housing, medical, counseling, nutrition, and transportation.
Contention
During discussions surrounding HB48, there were points of contention regarding the potential financial implications for schools receiving funding through the new program. Some legislators expressed concerns about the adequacy of state budget allocations to support the RISE program and whether current resources would be stretched too thin. Additionally, there were debates on how effectively the establishment of this program would integrate international students into existing school systems and whether it would lead to positive educational outcomes without straining local resources.