Bill > SF1357

This bill modifies provisions related to education finance, including compensatory revenue, teacher training, and unemployment aid, and establishes a task force to study the compensatory revenue formula, covering fiscal years 2026 and 2027. * **Teacher Training for Read Act Implementation:** Provides funding for teacher training related to the Read Act. The appropriation is $2,000,000 in fiscal year 2026, distributed to school districts, charter schools, and cooperative units. Each entity receives the greater of $2,000 or $40 per student based on fall 2024 enrollment. This funding must be used to compensate eligible teachers for time spent on required training. * **Unemployment Aid for Hourly Workers:** Increases funding for the school unemployment aid account for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. The appropriation is $1,000,000 in fiscal year 2026 and $1,000,000 in fiscal year 2027, from the General Fund. * **Compensatory Revenue Task Force:** Appropriates $100,000 in fiscal year 2026 from the General Fund to support the activities of the newly established Compensatory Revenue Task Force. This task force will analyze the compensatory revenue formula, student eligibility, and distribution methods. The task force is set to expire on February 15, 2027. * **Compensatory Revenue Calculation and Allocation:** Modifies how compensatory revenue eligibility is calculated by including students identified through the application of educational benefits, in addition to direct certification. For fiscal years 2026 and 2027 only, districts may allocate up to 40 percent of compensatory revenue to school sites under certain conditions related to student eligibility. * **Professional Development Requirements:** Amends requirements for professional development related to the Read Act, extending deadlines and allowing for reduced instructional hours for elementary students if teachers receive the required training. This change is effective the day following final enactment.