The bill amends K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 72-5153 to enhance at-risk educational programs in Kansas by including services provided by nonprofit organizations accredited by the International Multisensory Structured Language Education Council. It establishes an at-risk education fund in every school district, which will be used to finance programs and services aimed at assisting students identified as at-risk. The bill specifies that expenditures from this fund can only be made for approved at-risk educational programs, which must provide evidence-based instruction and support services. Additionally, the state board is tasked with maintaining and updating a list of these approved programs, ensuring that school districts have access to effective resources.

Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for provisional at-risk educational programs, allowing school districts to implement programs that are not yet on the approved list, provided they receive state board approval. If a provisional program demonstrates evidence-based instruction, it can be added to the approved list. The bill also emphasizes the importance of measurable outcomes, such as academic improvement and attendance, in evaluating the effectiveness of these programs. The existing section of K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 72-5153 is repealed, and the new provisions will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 72-5153
Enrolled: 72-5153