The bill seeks to enhance mental and behavioral health support for youth in schools by increasing staffing allocations for educational support professionals. It acknowledges the vital role these professionals play in addressing the challenges faced by students, particularly due to social media influences and the impacts of the pandemic. To achieve this, the legislation proposes an increase in the number of paraprofessionals in instructional roles, aiming to improve students' learning and behavioral outcomes. Additionally, it amends existing laws related to state funding for basic education, requiring the superintendent of public instruction to report on per-pupil allocations and establishing minimum staffing allocations for prototypical schools, with a focus on teaching assistants and support staff.

Moreover, the bill introduces new provisions for resource allocation targeting supplemental instruction for students who have exited transitional bilingual programs and support for highly capable students. It sets minimum allocations for prototypical schools based on the number of students exiting these programs and includes adjustments based on the percentage of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. The bill also mandates a biennial review of the distribution formula for basic education funds by the superintendent and governor, requiring legislative approval for any changes. New staffing unit allocations are detailed for elementary, middle, and high schools, with specified reductions in class sizes, and the act is scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2024, contingent upon specific funding being provided by June 30, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.150.260, 43.62.050
Substitute Bill: 28A.150.260, 43.62.050