Bill > SF0081

This bill modifies the state's K-12 public school finance system by implementing the 2025 cost of education study, which outlines the components and calculations for the education resource block grant model, a system used to fund schools. Key changes include updating how teacher staffing levels are determined based on student enrollment (Average Daily Membership or ADM), adjusting funding for various school roles like counselors, nurses, and support staff, and refining how operational costs such as utilities and maintenance are calculated. The bill also introduces new provisions for cash reserves, allowing school districts to hold a larger portion of unexpended funds for instructional purposes, and establishes a new grant program to reimburse school districts for student enrollment in post-secondary education options, like dual enrollment courses, with a cap of $10 million annually. Additionally, it makes conforming amendments to existing laws, requires rulemaking for implementation, and includes an appropriation of over $275 million to support these changes.