This bill amends the Education Equity and Property Tax Relief Act to provide direct state funding for various educational programs. It adds a new section that outlines the categorical programs that will receive state funding, including special education, career and technical education, pre-kindergarten programs, stabilization funds for certain schools, transportation costs for non-public schools and regional school districts, and a regionalization bonus for regionalized school districts. The bill also provides additional state support for English learners.

The bill establishes a new categorical funding category for civics education and creates a fund to support the effective instruction of civics education in every district. The funding will be used for teacher professional development, curriculum development, technical assistance for student-led civic projects, partnerships with community organizations, and evaluation of civic learning. The bill includes provisions for oversight and assessment of the fund by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Statutes affected:
7036: 16-7.2-6