Modifies the definition of "weighted average daily attendance" as used in the education funding formula
The bill's impact on state laws centers around the way school districts calculate attendance for funding purposes. The modification in the formula aims to ensure that districts with higher needs, such as those serving economically disadvantaged students or students requiring special education, receive appropriate funding. This could lead to significant changes in how state aid is allocated, promoting fairness across different regions and ensuring that districts are adequately supported to meet their educational obligations.
Senate Bill 1378 aims to modify the definition of 'weighted average daily attendance' as it pertains to the education funding formula in Missouri. This bill specifically repeals an existing section of the law related to the calculation of the weighted average daily attendance and enacts a new section that introduces adjustments based on various pupil counts, including those eligible for free and reduced-price lunches and those with special education needs. The adjustments seek to create a more equitable distribution of state funding based on the demographics of students served by school districts.
There may be points of contention surrounding the implementation of the new formula and its potential effects on funding distribution. Critics might argue that the changes could disadvantage certain districts, depending on how the ‘weighted’ components are calculated and what thresholds are set for different classifications of students. The concern is that, while the intention is to support districts that need it most, the adjustment process must be carefully managed to avoid unintended consequences that could disrupt funding stability or lead to community disparities.