This bill amends Section 33-1004 of the Idaho Code, which pertains to staff allowances for school districts. The amendments include provisions for calculating staff allowances based on support units, with specific multipliers for instructional, pupil service, administrative, and classified staff. Notably, the bill allows districts to contract for services with nondistrict employees and includes provisions for appealing the use of staff allowances under certain circumstances. Additionally, it introduces flexibility for districts with fewer support units, allowing for increased staff allowances under specific conditions, and permits the use of funds for virtual education services without reducing the number of funded positions.

The bill also removes previous language that mandated a one percent reduction in staff allowances for districts with larger average class sizes, along with related reporting requirements. It establishes that if a district's staff allowance is insufficient to meet accreditation standards, they may appeal for a waiver to include additional staff. Furthermore, the bill allows for kindergarten teachers to use a portion of their instructional staff allowance for home visits to strengthen relationships with students' families. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, due to an emergency declaration.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 33-1004