Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Basic ed bill signed into law

The parade of bill signings continue. Yesterday, of particular note, the Governor signed the domestic partnership bill.

Today, the Governor signed HB 2261, the basic ed funding bill that essentially redefines "basic education" and sets in motion the rewrite of the funding formulas that drive out dollars to school districts. Because the state is constitutionally bound to fund whatever it defines as "basic education," advocates are happy to see the new definition linked to graduation requirements that will make students much more college- and work-ready.

The Governor did veto two portions of the bill - the inclusion of early learning for at-risk kids and additional funding for highly capable students. The Governor made it clear she supports such efforts but does not think this is the appropriate way to fund those programs.

More than a hundred people turned up for the bill signing including parents, children, PTA members, and other advocates.

Apture