This bill introduces significant modifications to education laws in Iowa, with a particular emphasis on charter schools and nonpublic schools. It incorporates the teacher salary supplement into the funding formula for charter schools, ensuring they receive a comprehensive financial package. Additionally, it allows charter school employees who meet federal requirements to participate in the Iowa public employees retirement system and prioritizes payroll obligations and retirement liabilities in the event of a charter school closure. The bill also establishes revolving loan program funds to assist charter and accredited nonpublic schools in acquiring suitable facilities, empowering the Iowa Finance Authority to issue bonds and notes for financing school buildings.

Moreover, the legislation enhances educational opportunities by allowing students in charter schools to participate in extracurricular activities offered by public schools under certain conditions. It also introduces provisions for education savings accounts, enabling parents or guardians to apply for funding for eligible pupils with adjusted timelines. The bill reinforces the autonomy of nonpublic schools by allowing them to be accredited by independent agencies without state interference and establishes a task force to review and streamline teacher training and licensure requirements. Overall, the bill aims to improve funding mechanisms and educational opportunities while ensuring the operational independence of charter and nonpublic schools.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256E.8, 257.9, 97B.1A, 256E.11, 280.13D, 280.13A, 256.11, 16.163, 256C.4