The bill amends the Public School Funding Act of 2003 to introduce a new category of funding specifically for special education. It establishes that starting from the 2025-2026 school year, special education funding will be set at $3,862 per student who receives special education and related services as outlined in their individualized education plan. This funding is intended to ensure that schools have the necessary resources to support students with special needs.
Additionally, the bill specifies that the distribution of this special education funding will be governed by rules established by the state board. Importantly, the funding allocated for special education will not be included in the state foundation funding aid amount, thereby ensuring that it is treated as a separate funding stream to better address the unique needs of students requiring special education services.
Statutes affected: HB 1239: 6-20-2305(b)