Board hears first reading of open-enrollment policy changes amid special-education funding concerns

District staff presented a first reading of revisions to policy 51.13, the district’s open-enrollment program, and asked the board to approve changes before the upcoming open-enrollment process. Staff said the revisions reflect conversations with legal counsel and recent situations in which previously approved students moved out of state for treatment and became unreachable, complicating attendance/FTE counts and the district’s revenue accounting.

A staff member identified as Patrick told the board that special-education funding mechanics can shift revenue types without increasing net district funding: "So it's not that we get more money. We just get different money." Patrick explained that when students qualify for high-cost aid, receipt of that aid can reduce the special-education transfer amounts the district receives, which in some cases increases the district’s financial burden.

Staff did not seek final approval at this meeting; they said they would return at the next board meeting with the recommended policy for board action. Board members were invited to submit questions between meetings and to work with staff and legal counsel on any adjustments.

Key points: - Policy 51.13 was presented as a first reading; approval will be requested prior to the open-enrollment period. - Staff cited a case where a formerly approved student moved out of state and became unreachable, creating complications for FTE counts and for delivering services. - A funding concern was highlighted: qualifying for high-cost aid can change funding sources and lower special-education transfer amounts, producing potential budget pressure for the district.

Next steps: staff will return with a final draft for board approval prior to the open-enrollment window.