SB 276 - This act allows students to enroll in a school district other than their school district of residence or a charter school for the purpose of attending virtual courses or programs. Admission must be based on the time of submission of an application. School districts or charter schools must give a preference to a sibling of students who are already enrolled. In addition, a student who enrolls in another school district or charter school for attendance in a virtual program may remain enrolled until completion of all grade levels offered or until withdrawal. For purposes of state school aid, the student will be included in the average daily attendance of his or her school district of residence. The school district of residence must pay the district or charter school providing the virtual education an amount equal to seventy-two and one half percent of the previous year's statewide average current expenditure per average daily attendance but not to exceed the school district's current expenditure per average daily attendance, provided that the total amount paid by any district shall not exceed the total amount of state aid due to a district under the foundation formula. Any institution of higher education with its primary campus located in Missouri with an approved teacher education program may sponsor virtual charter schools. Virtual charter schools are subject to all charter school laws. They may only offer instruction in a virtual setting using technology, intranet and internet methods of communication.
This act is substantially similar to HB 470 (2013), SB 735 (2012), HB 1629 (2012) and is similar to SB 329 (2011) and HB 463 (2011).
MICHAEL RUFF