This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, specifically section 123B.44, to include provisions for elementary counseling services for nonpublic school pupils as part of nonpublic pupil aid. The amendments specify that nonpublic school pupils enrolled in a nonpublic school located within a district are entitled to the same health services provided to public school pupils, as well as counseling services tailored for elementary pupils. The bill also establishes guidelines for the transportation of nonpublic school pupils to access these services if they are provided at a site other than the nonpublic school. The effective date for these changes is set for state aid for fiscal year 2026 and later.

Additionally, the bill outlines the allotment process for guidance and counseling services, ensuring that the funding for these services is based on the actual costs incurred for nonpublic school pupils. The allotment for elementary counseling services is capped at the average expenditure per public school elementary pupil, multiplied by the number of eligible pupils in the nonpublic school. The bill also includes appropriations from the general fund to the Department of Education for nonpublic pupil aid, reinforcing the state's commitment to providing equitable educational support for all students, regardless of their school type.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 123B.44