The bill amends the State School Aid Act of 1979 by updating sections 6 and 11 and adding a new section 61e, which introduces the definition of "center program" as a special education initiative for various categories of special education pupils, including those with autism spectrum disorder and severe cognitive impairments. It clarifies the criteria for counting pupils in membership for funding purposes, including adjustments for late enrollments and specific provisions for special education pupils. The bill also emphasizes the importance of accurate pupil attendance records, particularly for cyber schools and virtual courses, to ensure proper funding and compliance with educational standards.

Furthermore, the bill establishes regulations for work-based learning experiences for pupils in state-approved career and technical education programs, ensuring that such participation does not displace existing permanent positions within the district. It allocates $2,000,000 from the state school aid fund for competitive grants to districts to cover additional costs incurred due to these experiences, with specific application requirements for districts. The bill aims to provide clarity and consistency in the membership counting process while accommodating various educational circumstances, including those related to cooperative education programs and alternative education placements.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 388.1606, 388.1611