The bill amends RCW 28A.500.015 to update the timeline and criteria for calculating state local effort assistance funding for school districts. Notably, the start date for providing this funding is changed from calendar year 2020 to 2026. The bill outlines the funding structure based on the actual enrichment levy rates of eligible school districts, specifying that districts with a levy rate below $1.50 per thousand dollars of assessed value will receive funding proportional to their levy rate, while those at or above this threshold will receive the maximum local effort assistance. Additionally, it establishes a funding mechanism for state-tribal education compact schools based on the previous year's enrichment levy per student.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new definitions and adjustments to the calculation of student enrollment for funding purposes. Specifically, it excludes 30 percent of a school district's full-time equivalent student enrollment for online or remote alternative learning experience courses if such enrollment exceeds 15 percent of the district's total enrollment. This change aims to ensure that funding reflects the actual in-person student population more accurately. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the support for school districts while addressing the nuances of student enrollment in various learning environments.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.500.015
Engrossed Bill: 28A.500.015