Maryland House Bill HB1365

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/11/22
• Refer: 2/11/22
• Report Pass: 3/29/22

Caption

Primary and Secondary Education – Full–Time Equivalent Enrollment Count – Alterations

Impact

The implementation of this bill will have significant implications for the calculation of state aid for both primary and secondary education. By revising the enrollment count criteria, it aims to ensure that financial resources are allocated in line with actual student attendance and participation. This adjustment in funding calculations could result in changes to the distribution of state aid, benefiting districts that have seen fluctuating enrollments or altered student demographic patterns, particularly in light of recent challenges faced by the education system.

Summary

House Bill 1365 introduces amendments to the definition of 'full-time equivalent enrollment' used in the calculation for state education aid in Maryland. The bill aims to refine how full-time equivalent enrollment is determined by incorporating the average number of students enrolled on specified dates throughout the previous school year. This change is expected to provide a more accurate reflection of student numbers, which in turn may influence the calculation of education funding distributed to schools.

Contention

While the bill is positioned to enhance accuracy in funding allocation, it could also lead to contentious debates among different stakeholders in the education sector. Opponents may argue that changing the enrollment measurement could inadvertently disadvantage certain districts, particularly underfunded ones that have struggled with enrollment due to socioeconomic factors or other challenges. Thus, the discussions surrounding HB1365 may revolve around balancing the need for accurate funding with the potential repercussions on various school districts and their ability to maintain educational services.