CT HB05043

Expands interdistrict magnet school grant programs to assist with meeting goals of the 2008 and 2013 Milo Sheff court settlement orders, allowing commissioner discretion to award grants up to $75,000 for start-up costs and establishing per-pupil grant amounts ranging from $7,000 to $13,000+ depending on school type and enrollment.

Establishes new grants for Hartford school district: up to $250,000 annually for Dr. Joseph S. Renzulli Gifted and Talented Academy program development and $750,000 annually through fiscal 2018 for converting neighborhood schools to Sheff Lighthouse Schools.

Modifies transportation grant amounts for interdistrict magnet schools and technical high schools, establishing maximum grants of $1,300-$2,000 per student depending on school type, with increased amounts for schools assisting with Sheff settlement goals.

Updates school building project grant provisions and allows Capitol Region Education Council to use 95% reimbursement rate for three specific magnet school facility projects and permits state to pay both state and local share of project costs subject to repayment schedules.

Adjusts school readiness program per-child cost ceiling to $8,661 effective fiscal year 2015 and extends various allocation and funding provisions through fiscal year 2015 or 2016.