This bill amends various sections of Alaska's education law to enhance the funding mechanisms for local school districts, with a particular focus on charter schools and local contributions. It mandates that local school boards provide charter schools with an annual program budget based on the number of enrolled students, while excluding certain administrative costs. The bill eliminates the previous requirement for a "required local contribution" and allows borough assemblies and city councils to determine local contributions for school district operations based on a percentage of the district's basic need. Additionally, it introduces new provisions for calculating public school funding, including adjustments for special needs and vocational education, and establishes a local contribution cap based on either a two-mill tax levy or a percentage of the district's basic need.

Moreover, the bill modifies the criteria for calculating adjusted Average Daily Membership (ADM) and repeals certain sections to streamline the funding process. It removes the requirement for the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development to determine the required local contribution, instead clarifying the calculations for district adjusted ADM. The bill also updates the criteria for school districts to implement layoff plans in response to changes in school attendance and basic needs. These amendments are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, aiming to create a more equitable and responsive financial framework for public education in Alaska.

Statutes affected:
HB0122A, AM HB 122, introduced 02/28/2025: 14.03.260, 14.17.410, 14.17.420, 14.12.020, 14.12.010, 14.17.470, 14.17.450, 14.17.460, 14.17.430, 14.17.510, 29.45.110, 29.45.080, 14.17.990, 14.20.177, 43.23.220, 43.23.230