The bill amends the State School Aid Act of 1979, introducing various updates to definitions and provisions related to school funding and pupil membership calculations. Key insertions include a new definition of "average daily attendance" set at 92% of pupils counted on membership count day, as well as clarifications on terms such as "board," "center," and "district." The bill also addresses cooperative education programs and criteria for counting pupils in membership, particularly for those in cyber schools and special education programs. Notably, it deletes the term "11x" from the definition of "district," streamlining the language used in the act. The bill emphasizes pupil attendance and participation in educational programs, particularly in virtual learning environments, by outlining specific requirements for attendance and participation in membership calculations.
Additionally, the bill outlines funding allocations for various educational initiatives, including special education programs, early childhood education, and virtual learning resources. It establishes new funding mechanisms, such as a school aid stabilization fund and a school meals reserve fund, to ensure financial stability and support for economically disadvantaged students. The bill also introduces accountability measures for schools, mandates compliance with specific reporting requirements, and prohibits the promotion of race or gender stereotyping in educational curricula. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the clarity and effectiveness of funding mechanisms for Michigan's educational institutions while ensuring compliance with federal laws and improving educational outcomes for all students.
Statutes affected: House Introduced Bill: 388.1611, 388.1617