A House committee is looking at a bill that its supporters say would be more fair to school districts that are seeing significant enrollment growth.
The bill would change the “rapid growth” formula adopted two years ago. That formula was based on the yearly “average daily membership” count – which comes in spring, at the close of the school year. And it sets triggered levels of extra funding, based on percentages.
The bill before the House Education Committee would allow school districts to apply for extra money based on either the average daily membership number – or their projected fall enrollment number, whichever may be higher. Supporters told the committee this would get money out to schools more quickly.
"Many of our schools in the state are growing in numbers," said State Sen. David Rust (R-Tioga), a co-sponsor of the bill. "Those students are here, and they must be served now."
West Fargo school superintendent David Flowers told the committee his district has seen robust growth for a number of years – but the money hasn’t kept up.
"I would label the current law as inequitable because not all students or districts are treated the same," said Flowers.
Minot school superintendent Mark Vollmer told the Committee the district has grown – but it has not received any increased state funding.
"As I enter our classrooms, I cannot tell you which of these students are new, which generate no foundation aid payments from those who do," said Vollmer. "Each child needs a desk. They need supplies. They need a locker. They need a teacher. And under state law, they are entitled to a free and appropriate public education."
The bill has a $66 million price tag. The Committee has not yet taken action.
