Relating to the small and mid-sized district allotment under the public school finance system.
Impact
If enacted, HB3082 will provide essential annual funding to small and mid-sized school districts that have historically struggled with resource allocation under the existing financial frameworks. By tailoring the funding formulas according to district size and attendance, the bill aims to create a more equitable distribution of state educational resources. This would help to bridge the funding gap often experienced by smaller districts, thereby enhancing educational opportunities for students in those areas.
Summary
House Bill 3082 aims to amend the existing public school finance system in Texas by introducing new formulas for allotting funds to small and mid-sized school districts. Specifically, the bill entitles districts with fewer than 1,600 students in average daily attendance to an annual allotment per student based on a specific formula designed to support their financial needs. Smaller districts, especially those with less than 300 students and located within their own counties, receive a greater allotment to ensure their sustainability and operational ability.
Contention
While there is support for the bill driven by the goal of providing more tailored funding, there may be concerns regarding the overall funding levels for education and whether this bill will lead to adequate support for larger districts. Some stakeholders may argue that alterations in the allotment formulas could inadvertently disadvantage larger districts that require more substantial funding due to their size and student population. Therefore, discussions around the equity and sufficiency of educational funding in Texas will likely be a point of contention as the bill moves through the legislative process.
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 public education and public school finance, including the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, contributions by a public school to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and an education savings account program for certain children.
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.
Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.