STATEHOUSE (Jan. 8, 2021) – The House Ways and Means Committee on Wednesday voted unanimously in support of a legislative proposal co-authored by State Reps. Dale DeVon (R-Granger) and Jake Teshka (R-South Bend) to fully fund all K-12 public school students for the 2020-21 school year due to COVID-19.
DeVon said the bill would ensure public schools receive 100% funding for each student, whether they attended classes in-person or virtually. Due to the pandemic, many traditional public schools had to make the shift to remote learning to help slow the spread of COVID-19. He said the bill helps mitigate requirements under current law requiring schools receive 85% of the tuition support per virtual student, which is defined as a child learning 50% or more of their instruction online.
"No one could have predicted the challenges that our schools would face due to the pandemic," DeVon said. "In such an extraordinary school year, we owe it to our students to see that they get the best education possible and that starts with ensuring schools have the funding needed to provide these resources."
Teshka said this is a top priority this session and he looks forward to working with fellow legislators to address public education needs.
"As one of the first bills acted on this session, we recognize the importance of settling this issue swiftly for Hoosier students, families and teachers," Teshka said. "Our schools have worked tremendously hard to adapt and provide support for our communities and this legislation will help them stay on track."
House Bill 1003 now moves to the House floor for further consideration. Visit iga.in.gov for more information.
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State Rep. Dale DeVon (R-Granger) represents House District 5, which includes portions of St. Joseph County.
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State Rep. Jake Teshka (R-South Bend) represents House District 7, which includes the majority of St. Joseph County.
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