Bill > HB5438

This bill modifies the foundation allowance, which is funding provided to schools to improve instructional programs, by adjusting how certain funds are allocated and used. Specifically, it allows the Department of Education to retain up to $15 million annually for implementing and funding a new uniform budgeting and accounting system, and also permits the Governor to reappropriate any unused accumulated balances from the Department of Education to continue initiatives like training in the science of reading for early grades. Furthermore, the bill allocates funding to support the full implementation of the "Third Grade Success Act," a program aimed at improving reading proficiency in third graders. Finally, county school boards are now permitted to use up to 50% of their allocation for teacher and leader induction programs for projects identified in the "Safe Schools Fund," which aims to improve school safety.