STATEHOUSE (Jan. 27, 2021) – The Indiana House of Representatives recently voted in support of legislation to fully fund all K-12 public school students for the 2020-21 school year, regardless of whether students attended classes in-person or virtually due to COVID-19, according to area legislators.
"More than half of the state's biennial budget goes toward K-12 education, and funding our schools remains a top priority," said State Rep. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield), a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. "This year is no different. Indiana schools and educators deserve support, and this legislation will help ensure they receive the funding they need after a difficult year."
Cherry said the pandemic caused many traditional public schools to shift from in-person classes to remote learning. Under current law, schools receive 85% of tuition support per virtual student, which is defined as a child learning 50% or more of their instruction online. This means many schools would qualify for the lower funding amount because of moving classes online.
"This proposal is quickly working its way through the legislative process," said State Rep. Sean Eberhart (R-Shelbyville). "We know Indiana schools deserve to be fully funded after working hard to educate our students during the pandemic."
This legislation, which now advances to the Senate for consideration, would help mitigate requirements under current law and allow K-12 public schools to receive 100% funding for each student, whether they attended classes in-person or virtually.
"Hoosier teachers and schools have done a phenomenal job adjusting to slow the spread of COVID-19 while pushing forward to educate our students," said State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers). "Looking ahead, educators can now rest assured that they can continue operating at the same funding level this school year whether class is held in person or virtually."
To learn more about House Bill 1003 and watch legislative proceedings online, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Bob Cherry (R-Greenfield) represents House District 53,
which includes portions of Hancock and Madison counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Sean Eberhart (R-Shelbyville) represents House District 57,
which includes Shelby County and portions of Bartholomew and Hancock counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) represents House District 88,
which includes portions of Marion, Hamilton and Hancock counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
