MN HF488

Allows kindergarten pupils in full-day programs to be counted as 1.0 pupil units for funding purposes, while half-day kindergarten pupils are counted as 0.612 pupil units, effective for fiscal years 2012 and later.

Increases the hour threshold for full-day kindergarten students without disabilities from 425 to 850 hours for purposes of determining if they can be counted as more than one pupil in average daily membership.

Removes language prohibiting the use of reduced class size revenue for all-day, everyday kindergarten; districts can now use this revenue for other purposes including class size reduction in grades 4-6, individualized learning plans, and staff development.

Expands the purpose of section 126C.126 from funding "all-day kindergarten" to funding broader "early education programs," including school readiness and early childhood family education programs.

Authorizes school districts to spend general education revenue on extended time kindergarten and prekindergarten programs.