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Bill to clarify funding for summer 'Jump Start' early‑literacy programs draws broad support
Summary
Sen. Daniel Emrich sponsored SB 35 to ensure children in out‑of‑district summer Jump Start literacy programs count for enrollment and funding without out‑of‑district agreements; proponents said the change removes barriers and estimated about 1,900 students participated last summer.
Senate Bill 35, sponsored by Senator Daniel Emrich, would clarify that a child who participates in an early‑literacy Jump Start program provided by a district other than the child’s resident district does not require an out‑of‑district attendance agreement and is not subject to specified tuition requirements.
Rob Watson, representing the School Administrators of Montana and CAMPS (Coalition of Advocates for Montana’s Public Schools), told the committee the change would accommodate students who spend summers away from their resident district and allow the serving district to receive the quarter A and B funding for participating students. Watson said his understanding is that about “1,900 students” participated in the Jump Start program last summer.
Sarah Froehlich of 0 to 5 Montana and Kim Popham of the Montana Federation of Public Employees also testified in support, saying SB 35 would remove barriers to access and benefit students, families and educators. Paul Taylor of the Office of Public Instruction and staff clarified retroactive applicability language: the draft intends to cover summer programs that begin in June 2025 and span two school fiscal years, and districts’ school calendars may vary.
Sponsor Emrich said the bill originated with the Education Interim Committee and asked for a do‑pass recommendation. The committee closed the hearing with executive action scheduled for Jan. 16 and did not vote on the bill at this hearing.
