Relating to the small-sized district adjustment under the Foundation School Program.
Impact
The amendment to the Education Code is intended to enhance the financial support for smaller districts, which may otherwise struggle to provide adequate educational services due to budget constraints. By altering the funding formula, HB2091 seeks to level the playing field for these districts, enabling them to maintain or improve their educational offerings. This could have long-term implications for student achievement and resources in smaller communities dependent on school funding.
Summary
House Bill 2091 focuses on amending the Education Code to adjust funding calculations for small-sized school districts under the Foundation School Program. The bill proposes that districts with fewer than 1,600 students in average daily attendance would have their basic allotment adjusted based on a specified formula. This aims to ensure that smaller districts receive appropriate funding relative to their size, potentially addressing disparities in educational resources among larger and smaller districts.
Contention
While the bill aims to benefit smaller school districts, there may be concerns regarding its budgetary implications for the overall Foundation School Program. Critics could argue that the reallocation of funds necessary to support smaller districts might detract from larger districts that also play a critical role in the state's educational landscape. As such, a balance must be struck to ensure equitable funding that does not inadvertently disadvantage any segment of the educational system.
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.
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 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.