The bill amends South Dakota's education funding laws, specifically focusing on the calculation of the "other revenue base amount" available to certain school districts. It introduces new provisions that allow for a more nuanced approach to determining funding based on various factors, including the fall enrollment of students, the target teacher ratio, and adjustments for English learners. Notably, the bill stipulates that for school districts with a fall enrollment of 250 students or fewer and an area of 250 square miles or fewer, the other revenue base amount will be set at 25% of the previously defined amount. Additionally, it clarifies how the other revenue base amount is calculated for newly created or reorganized districts and outlines the treatment of wind energy tax revenue in relation to local effort and the other revenue base amount.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a framework for calculating local need and local effort, which includes various adjustments based on student enrollment and specific educational needs. It also sets a target teacher salary and benefits structure, with provisions for annual adjustments based on the consumer price index. The legislation aims to ensure that funding is equitably distributed among school districts while considering their unique circumstances, thereby enhancing the overall educational funding landscape in South Dakota.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/30/2025: 13-13-10.1