Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF2211

Introduced
1/30/24  
Introduced
1/30/24  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to special education weighting for children enrolled in accredited nonpublic schools.

Impact

If enacted, HF2211 would significantly alter the distribution of state funding by recognizing special needs students in nonpublic schools. It would ensure that these students receive weighted funding based on their specific needs, thereby increasing the financial resources available for their education. This revision in funding calculations can lead to better educational outcomes for children attending nonpublic institutions and assure their needs are met more adequately within the state's educational framework.

Summary

House File 2211 aims to amend the way special education weightings are calculated for children enrolled in accredited nonpublic schools in Iowa. The bill proposes to allow parents and guardians of children in these schools to have their child examined following the requirements of the state division of special education. This would enable the inclusion of these children in the calculations for state school foundation aid, which has previously excluded them. The legislation seeks to ensure that children with special needs in nonpublic settings receive equitable consideration in funding compared to those in public schools.

Contention

The bill is likely to face points of contention, particularly concerning the equity of funding between public and nonpublic schools. Some legislators may argue that providing state aid to nonpublic institutions undermines the public school system, while others advocate for equal treatment of special needs students regardless of their school setting. This debate highlights the ongoing tensions between supporters of public education and those who wish to enhance educational opportunities in private contexts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA SF2018

A bill for an act relating to special education, including by requiring accredited nonpublic schools to provide special education services to students enrolled in the school who require such services and modifying the responsibilities of area education agencies, and including effective date provisions.

IA SF2006

A bill for an act relating to physical activity requirements applicable to students enrolled in public schools and accredited nonpublic schools.

IA HF263

A bill for an act relating to physical activity requirements applicable to students enrolled in public schools and accredited nonpublic schools.

IA HF251

A bill for an act requiring the state board of education to publish information related to nonpublic schools that are accredited by an approved independent accrediting agency.

IA SSB3108

A bill for an act relating to the maximum driving distance of unsupervised persons issued a special minor's restricted driver's license who are enrolled at an accredited nonpublic school.(See SF 2358.)

IA SF100

A bill for an act relating to mental health resources for students enrolled in school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, and innovation zone schools.

IA SB373

Special education: nonpublic, nonsectarian schools or agencies.

IA SF2358

A bill for an act relating to the maximum driving distance of unsupervised persons issued a special minor's restricted driver's license who are enrolled at an accredited nonpublic school.(Formerly SSB 3108.)

IA HSB276

A bill for an act modifying provisions related to the minimum amount of instruction provided to students enrolled in school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, and innovation zone schools.

IA HF149

A bill for an act modifying provisions related to the harassment or bullying of students enrolled in school districts or accredited nonpublic schools.(See HF 865.)

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