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House approves $2 million boost for small-school funding
Summary
The House unanimously approved HB 217, a $2 million addition to the necessary existing small schools fund aimed at expanding course offerings in rural districts; supporters cited gaps in music, art and language instruction.
Representative McKiff presented HB 217 to add $2 million to the small-school funding account that supports "necessary existing" rural schools. He said comparisons show dramatic gaps in course offerings between larger Utah County schools and remote high schools such as Paiute High School, citing music (35 vs. 3), art and language course disparities.
Several members rose in support, describing first-hand experience teaching or visiting rural schools and urging colleagues to back the appropriation so small schools can restore programs such as music and theater. Representative Briscoe recounted teaching in a small school with multi-preparation demands on teachers, and Representative Brown said the funding had been raised previously and was critical to sustain educational opportunities in Rich and Daggett counties.
The House opened and closed voting; HB 217 passed 70-0 and will be transmitted to the Senate.
