SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5000

BYSenators Gaspard, Bailey, Bender, von Reichbauer, Warnke, Talmadge and Madsen

Making class size a consideration for determining the basic education allocation.

Senate Committee on Education

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 16, 1989

Senate Staff:Susan Finkel (786-7483)

AS OF JANUARY 13, 1989

BACKGROUND:

Some research indicates that lower class sizes contribute to greater academic achievement by students.  In the 1985-87 budget, the Legislature enhanced the funding formula ratio for grades kindergarten through third grade from, in effect, 46 certificated instructional staff per 1,000 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) students to 47:1,000, effective in the 1986-87 school year.  In 1987-88 the formula was enhanced to 48:1,000, (K-3) and in the current school year the formula has been enhanced to 49:1,000 (K-3).  It is proposed that the legislative commitment to reduce class size in grades K-3 be continued.

SUMMARY:

Beginning with the 1989-90 school year, the funding formula ratio shall be 51 certificated instructional staff for every 1,000 FTE students in kindergarten through third grade.  Districts are required to use the enhancement funds to provide additional certificated instructional staff in K-3.  When space limitations or staffing or program constraints exist, districts may use the additional allocation to provide certificated or classified personnel whose primary duty is the daily educational instruction of students.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested January 9, 1989