Ragan Report

Giving schools flexibility to ensure efficient use of funding
    The Legislature is working on two bills to provide flexibility in how schools use their money.
    When new programs are created, schools often must follow certain guidelines in spending the allotted money. This is called categorical funding. To help schools use their limited funding effectively, HF 564adds allowable expenses.
    For example, preschool funds currently can be used for professional development of preschool teachers, instructional equipment and transporting preschool kids. Under this bill, any funding not used at the end of the year may go toward translation services, playground equipment, repair costs, enhancing programs by contracting with community providers and more.
    While HF 564addresses allocation and flexibility in using funds, another bill (HF 565) creates a special flexibility account.
    In 2015, school districts statewide had $146 million in unused funds. Under HF 565, some of that money could go into a “Flexibility Account” to be used in a broader fashion to achieve the goals of the original funding. This would allow schools to provide more high-quality programming and a stronger educational environment overall. Use of the funds would require a public hearing and school board approval.
    These two bills won’t overcome the struggles our schools face after years of inadequate state funding, but they may make school budgets a little easier to manage in tough times. 
     Sen. Amanda Ragan (D-Mason City) serves Franklin, Butler and Cerro Gordo counties in Senate District 27. She can be reached at (515) 281-3371 or (641) 424-0874. Email her at amanda.ragan@legis.iowa.gov.