OSPI proposes smoothing LAP eligibility and preserving levy equalization to target high‑need students
Summary
Reykdal told reporters OSPI wants to replace the binary >50% poverty trigger in the Learning Assistance Program with a smoother allocation and to halt the scheduled phase‑down of levy equalization funds, proposing those resources be repurposed to serve students in high‑need communities.
In response to reporter questions about the Learning Assistance Program (LAP), Chris Reykdal outlined two proposed structural changes: remove the binary district trigger (over 50% poverty) in favor of a graduated approach so districts with sizeable numbers of students in need receive support, and prevent the scheduled phase‑down of the LEA (levy equalization) program so those funds can be stabilized or shifted into LAP to better target high‑poverty students.
Reykdal explained the binary trigger produces perverse outcomes—"kids at 51% need it and kids at 49% get nothing"—and urged smoothing eligibility to fund students proportionally. He acknowledged the legislature already budgeted LEA to decline over the next four years and said asking them to keep or repurpose that revenue will be framed as a cost driver in negotiations.
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