AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to education funding.
The impact of SB0679 will be significant in reshaping how educational funding is allocated for students requiring special accommodations. By defining terms such as 'peer model' and 'pre-kindergarten student with special education needs,' the bill clarifies the obligations that local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools have in providing appropriate educational settings. This legislative amendment intends to guarantee that the funding received for special education is not adversely affected by other factors, which could enhance stability and predictability in financial support for these educational programs.
Senate Bill 0679, known as SB0679, aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated with respect to education funding specifically geared towards students with special education needs. The bill establishes a student-based funding formula called the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA), which will support funding for kindergarten through grade twelve (K-12) public schools while also addressing the needs of pre-kindergarten students with disabilities. The legislation emphasizes inclusivity and the provision of教育 in the least restrictive environment, ensuring children with disabilities are educated alongside their peers to the maximum extent appropriate.
Notably, there may be points of contention surrounding the implementation of the TISA funding model. Advocates for special education argue that this new funding mechanism is essential for addressing long-standing disparities in educational resources for students with disabilities. However, opponents may question the adequacy of funding levels and the capacity of LEAs to effectively implement the new model without additional resources. Concerns may also arise regarding the balance between mainstreaming students with special needs and ensuring that they receive the focused support they require to thrive in their educational settings.