The bill aims to revise the school funding laws in Montana by redefining the "basic system of free quality public elementary and secondary schools" and updating the educationally relevant factors that the legislature must consider when developing a school funding formula. Key insertions include the requirement for a statewide public school open enrollment program, a focus on student achievement growth in relation to inflation-adjusted funding, and the need for transparency in how public school districts utilize additional funding to improve student outcomes. The bill also emphasizes the importance of local control and the ability for students to transfer among public schools at no personal cost.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the legislature consider various factors when determining the funding formula, such as the number of students, the needs of isolated and urban schools, and the ability to attract qualified educators. It introduces new provisions for annual inflationary adjustments to the funding formula and ensures that funding follows students who participate in open enrollment across district boundaries. The bill also establishes a requirement for the legislature to reassess the school funding formula at least every ten years, ensuring ongoing evaluation and adaptation to meet educational needs effectively.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 20-9-309
SB0215_1(1): 20-9-309
SB0215_1(2): 20-9-309
SB0215_1(3): 20-9-309
SB0215_1: 20-9-309