Requires that a fixed percentage amount of school district budgets shall be dedicated and utilized solely for classroom expenses

Title of bill

An act to amend the education law, in relation to requiring fixed percentages of school district budgets to be used for classroom expenses

Purpose

This bill requires that a fixed percentage amount of school district budgets will be dedicated and utilized solely for classroom expenses.

Summary of provisions

The education law is amended by adding a new section 1527-a to require fixed percentages of school district budgets to be used for classroom expenses. The State Education Department Commissioner is required to define what is meant by "classroom expenses" and will identify these expenses to the districts.

Beginning in the 2007-08 school year the minimum fixed percentage would be 65%. In 2008-2009, the percentage would increase to 70% and would max out at a minimum percentage of 75% in school year 2009-2010.

Any school district which does not meet these standards must increase their percentage at a minimum of 2% each year until they reach the required percentage.

Justification

In a global, information-age economy, young Americans will not enjoy a first class economic future without a first class education today. The climate for success begins and ends in the classroom. Regardless of the county or school district students live within, we need every student in New York State to have the opportunity for the best possible education.

The goal of this legislation is to insure by 2010, that at least 75% of what taxpayers spend on K-12 education actually makes its way into the classroom.

Legislative history

S.6398-A of 2006; S.611 of 2007/2008

Fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.