MN HF2846

Two or more independent school districts may establish an innovative cooperative center to provide technology and educational services upon majority vote of each district's board, with optional membership by Minnesota state colleges or universities.

The center must be governed by a 12-member board with equal regional representation if organized into up to four regions, limited to four members from higher education institutions, and including at least one superintendent from participating school districts.

The center board may employ an executive director and necessary staff, furnish technology offerings to eligible persons in participating districts, provide other educational programs by agreement, and prescribe tuition rates for nonmember students.

The center is a public corporation exempt from state and local taxation, may receive federal, state, and local funds, and may assess participating districts their proportionate share of expenses based on an equitable distribution formula agreed upon by the districts.

Adjoining districts may join the center with approval from both the district and center boards; participating districts may withdraw with majority board vote and proper notice, with withdrawal effective at the end of the next school year.