The bill amends the State School Aid Act of 1979 to enhance the definitions and provisions related to special education programs and pupil membership calculations. It introduces the term "center program," which encompasses special education programs for various categories of special needs pupils, ensuring that these pupils can be counted for funding purposes even if they are part-time in non-center programs. The bill also revises the criteria for calculating pupil membership, detailing how full-time equated pupils in grades K to 12 are counted, including adjustments for late enrollments and specific conditions for special education pupils. These changes aim to improve the funding framework for Michigan's educational institutions, particularly in supporting special education services.

Additionally, the bill establishes a tiered system for calculating opportunity index scores for districts in the community eligibility program, which will determine additional weighted pupil memberships for economically disadvantaged pupils. It outlines the reporting requirements for districts and introduces a structured approach to funding that aligns with the needs of these students over the coming years. The bill also modifies the allocation process for discretionary payments to districts, significantly reducing amounts for the fiscal years 2024-2025 and 2025-2026, while implementing new requirements for English language proficiency assessments to qualify for funding. Overall, the bill aims to ensure equitable funding distribution and accountability in the use of educational resources.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 388.1606