Improvement fund approved
February 2, 2007 Issue (63k ) of Legislative Highlights

Discussions about components of the school funding package began in earnest this week as Senate Revenue and General Government approved SB 318. The bill redefines the school improvement fund to align with the proposal put forth by the education community. After adopting two clarifying amendments, the committee approved the bill unanimously.

"Senate Bill 318 is a cornerstone piece of legislation for the 2007-09 school funding package," said David Williams, OSBA's Legislative & Public Affairs specialist. "The school improvement fund will provide additional funds to districts with maximum flexibility. The Senate is sending a clear signal that it supports the coalition's funding proposal.".

The bill's first hearing was Jan. 26 before the Senate Education Committee in Reedsport; based on testimony there, Sen. Vicki Walker (D-Eugene) amended the bill to remove the requirement that districts put up 25 percent of the money before receiving the state grant.

A coalition of education organizations including OSBA, the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators and the Oregon Education Association, has proposed a comprehensive school funding package. The proposal calls on the Legislature to appropriate $6.0 billion to the State School Fund and an additional $300 million to the School Improvement Fund to be used by districts for targeted investments.

See this story for more information on the coalition proposal or contact David Williams .