SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5367

                    As of February 10, 1997

Title:  An act relating to student counts for state general apportionment funding.

Brief Description:  Establishing a pilot program regarding state general apportionment funding for students enrolled part‑time in nonresident districts.

Sponsors:  Senators Snyder, McAuliffe, Prince, Hargrove and Winsley.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Education:  2/13/97.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Staff:  Susan Mielke (786-7422)

Background:  The Legislature has directed the Superintendent of Public Instruction (SPI) to adopt rules governing cooperative educational programs between and among school districts.  For the purposes of apportionment funding, the current rules require each participating school district to report the student enrollment based on the time the district actually serves the shared student.

Summary of Bill:  The SPI is directed to establish a two-year pilot program.  The pilot must permit school districts to enter into agreements to provide a cooperative program among districts.  For the purposes of apportionment funding, students in the program who take classes parttime at a nonresident district are counted only at their school of residence.  At least three school districts must comprise each pilot program.  

The SPI must adopt rules to implement the pilot program.

By December 31, 1999, the SPI must report to the Legislature on the benefits of the pilot program, any difficulties encountered by the districts or the SPI, and make recommendations regarding continuation of the program.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 4, 1997.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.