Subcommittee debates one‑shot funding, carryforward and program matches for teacher pipeline and JAG

Lawmakers on the Joint Subcommittee examined multiple state categorical programs grouped in budget account 2699 and account 2718, focusing on how one‑shot appropriations and carryforward restrictions affect scholarships, dual‑credit supports, career and technical education (CTE) activities and a JAG enhancement.

Megan Peterson, deputy superintendent for the Nevada Department of Education, summarized account 2699 as the location for smaller state categorical programs that did not move into the pupil‑centered funding plan. She described decision units that include dual credit functions, staff contract increases for “Jobs for Nevada’s Graduates,” and a one‑shot appropriation for the incentivizing pathways to teaching program. On the incentivizing pathways program Peterson said the request includes one‑shot funding of $6,700,000 in each year of the biennium intended for tuition assistance or paid teaching stipends; the department noted there is no 25% holdback for this set of funds.

Committee members asked whether one‑shot status and current budget language hamstring districts’ and providers’ ability to spend funds across years. Peterson said one‑shot funding and uncertainty about carryforward “introduce instability in our ability to ensure that funding is available for those in the future.” Jeff Brisky added that SB 81 contains language to allow carryover of incentivizing‑pathways funds and that the department is pursuing budget amendments to align funding sources with program needs.

The subcommittee also discussed Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG). Renee Cantu, a JAG representative, told the committee JAG now raises roughly 34% of its program budget from corporate and other sources and that the state fund covers the remaining 66%. Cantu said if the roughly $314,000 enhancement were not approved, the program would likely lay off three to four state‑licensed specialists and lose services for an estimated 180 to 240 students across 14 counties.

Members asked about matching requirements and why certain transfers were not included in the governor’s recommended budget. Department fiscal staff told the committee that the department did not have confirmation from an external funding source (referred to in testimony as Dieter) at the time the recommended budget was built; the department said it plans to file a budget amendment after confirming that external funding will continue.

Account 2718, which holds funds for the Teach Nevada scholarship program (an alternative route to licensure), drew questions about reconciliation and recordkeeping. Peterson said the program’s administration moved from universities to the department and that records from prior leadership were incomplete; she said the department is working to reconcile past awards and intends to submit requests to access the IFC contingency account for a previously set‑aside $3.2 million after completing reconciliations.

Finally, the committee heard testimony from Anna Reynolds, director of the Office of Career Readiness, Adult Learning and Education Options, who asked the panel to remove “disabling” statutory language that currently prevents state career and technical education funds from being used for career and technical student organizations (CTSOs) and professional development. Reynolds said districts often charge students fees to participate in CTSOs and that allowing state funds to cover those costs would help districts meet maintenance‑of‑effort requirements and spend state CTE dollars for their intended purposes.

No votes were taken on account 2699 or 2718 during the hearing. Department staff indicated they will work with fiscal staff to submit the promised budget amendments and to provide district‑level cost information for CTSO participation and professional development.