Bill > HB1338

This bill concerns school operating costs and proposes several key changes to the state's education funding formula. It updates the allocation of state funding for school districts by modifying the calculation of staffing and resource needs based on "prototypical schools" - model schools with standard student populations (600 students for high schools, 432 for middle schools, and 400 for elementary schools). The bill adjusts funding for various educational staff categories, including classroom teachers, administrators, librarians, paraeducators, counselors, and support staff, with a focus on providing more flexibility in how districts can use these allocations. It increases per-student funding for materials, supplies, and operating costs across several categories like technology, utilities, curriculum, and maintenance, with specific allocations that will be adjusted annually for inflation. The bill also provides additional funding for specific programs such as learning assistance, transitional bilingual instruction, and highly capable student programs. Notably, the bill introduces a requirement for the legislature to review and potentially rebase materials and operating costs every four years starting in the 2029-30 school year. The legislation aims to provide more transparent and adaptable funding for school districts while ensuring resources are available to support various educational needs and student support services.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1338&Year=2025&Initiative=false