MN SF1322

Minnesota Department of Education must assemble cost data and conduct a professional cost study analysis to determine costs of delivering K-12 curriculum, services, and state-mandated programs in public schools.

Preliminary report to education committees due February 1, 2014, with final report due January 1, 2015; department shall consult with house and senate leadership on study design and provide regular progress reports.

Study must review state-mandated services and programs, analyze actual costs from sample school districts for regular education and specialized services (special education, bilingual education, at-risk programs), and identify funding gaps related to educational objectives.

Study must examine cost variations among school districts of different sizes and regions, recommend efficiencies and reforms, and identify additional funding needed to meet state educational objectives.

Department of Education authorized to contract with consultants as deemed necessary to conduct the study.