Relating to the transportation allotment provided under the Foundation School Program.
Impact
The bill's impact on existing state laws is significant, as it influences how public funds are appropriated for school transportation. By modifying the funding formula and removing certain restrictions, SB241 allows districts to receive more appropriate financial assistance relative to their transportation operations. This change is expected to provide more equitable access to transportation for students across various districts, particularly benefiting those located in rural and underserved areas.
Summary
SB241 pertains to the transportation allotment provided under the Foundation School Program in Texas. The bill updates existing statutes related to how transportation costs are calculated and allocated to school districts. By revising sections of the Education Code, it aims to streamline and clarify the criteria for transport funding and ensure more accurate reimbursements based on actual needs. This includes adjustments to how districts report costs and students served, as well as provisions for special education transportation.
Contention
While the bill has the potential to improve the efficiency of transportation spending in education, it could also lead to contentious debates about funding priorities. Some stakeholders might argue that reallocating funds toward transportation could detract from other essential areas such as classroom resources or educational programs. Notably, discussions may arise regarding the adequacy of funding to adequately cover the true costs of transportation, especially when considering students with special needs or those living in isolated areas who might require additional support.
Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district, a security officer employed by a school district, the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program; making an appropriation.
Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district, the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program; making an appropriation.
Relating to establishing the Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) program and creating an allotment and outcomes bonus under the Foundation School Program to support the program.
Relating to the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, including financial and other assistance provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators and to certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.
Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.
Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators and assistance provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators and to certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.
Relating to the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, certain allotments under the Foundation School Program, determination of a school district's assets to liabilities ratio under the public school financial accountability rating system, and credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.
Payments for school district transportation of students, special education students, and career and technical education students, the distribution of transportation payments in the event of school district closure, and state transportation payments to school districts; and to provide an effective date.