Changes for Kindergarten Instructional Time Requirements in Michigan
In our 50th interview, we talk with David Martell CPA, CFO - the new Executive Director of Michigan School Business Officials. The topic is on the new rules regarding kindergarten enrollment and alternative kindergarten programs.
The legislation specifies that in order for schools to achieve a full FTE they will have to offer a full day of Kindergarten. Previously a full FTE had been awarded for half-day Kindergarten Programs. In essence, schools will now need to extend their Kindergarten programs to a full day in order to maintain the same funding. While this seems to be an equitable path, the change in school funding will represent yet another financial challenge for many school districts.
Martell talked about the current funding crisis: "As we approach the Revenue Consensus Report next week we expect to see some very harsh economic situations for schools, looking at the 09-10 school year. Schools may not see any increase in their foundation allowance and all their expenses are going up."
He goes on to say, "this is really the worst time for us to implement a proposal like this. Hopefully the State Legislature will look at this as well and say that this is a good idea but that the time just not right. Maybe this is something we can push of to the future."
We hope you enjoy the show.
Michigan Department of Education document regarding the issue.
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