Relative to the calculation of average daily membership in attendance and average daily membership in residence for certain home educated pupils.
The proposed changes under HB637 are expected to have a fiscal impact on both state and local levels. It is projected that the state will experience an increase in expenditures amounting to approximately $150,000 to $250,000 per year due to the expanded calculation of ADMA and ADMR for home educated pupils. This increase is largely due to the new guarantee that adequacy payments will be available to local school districts for these home educated students, which could foster more consistent reporting and engagement with home education practices throughout the state.
House Bill 637 (HB637) aims to revise the methodology for calculating average daily membership in attendance (ADMA) and average daily membership in residence (ADMR) for students, specifically addressing home educated pupils in New Hampshire. The bill intends to broaden the funding eligibility criteria to ensure that home educated students who are enrolled in public school academic courses in grades 7 through 12 are accurately represented in school funding calculations. This modification is significant as it acknowledges the contributions of home educated students to public education resources and seeks to enhance their recognition within the funding framework.
While the bill is positioned as a means to support families who engage in home education, it could be a point of contention among various stakeholders. The debate around this legislation may revolve around the adequacy of funding and what it means for the allocation of resources within public education. Opponents may express concerns about potential discrepancies in funding equity, where increased funds for home educated students could impact resources available for traditional public schooling. Thus, discussions around the bill may highlight differing perspectives on the prioritization of educational funding.
HB637 is unique in its approach to educational funding, specifically by not limiting support to students who solely attend public schools but extending it to home educated pupils enrolled in public courses as well. This amendment is seen as a progressive step towards inclusivity in the education system, reflecting changing trends in how education is delivered in New Hampshire. The bill's effective date is planned to be set at 60 days post-passage, allowing time for adjustments within the educational funding framework to accommodate the new calculations.