This bill modifies the provisions related to English learner participation in open enrollment in Iowa. It stipulates that a request for an English learner to transfer to another district will only be granted if the receiving district has an appropriate program for special instruction that meets the educational needs of the English learner, and if the enrollment does not exceed the maximum class size or caseload established by the state board of education. Additionally, if the English learner is to be placed in a general education class, there must be sufficient classroom space available.

The bill also clarifies the financial responsibilities of the districts involved. It amends the payment structure, indicating that if the costs incurred by the receiving district for providing special instruction exceed the funds received from the district of residence, the latter must cover the difference. Conversely, if the costs are less than or equal to the funds due, the district of residence will pay according to the existing provisions. The bill includes nonsubstantive changes to the language in Code section 282.18(7)(b)(1) regarding the payments for open enrollment students. These changes will apply to open enrollment applications filed on or after the effective date of the bill.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 282.18, 257.9