S.F. No. 23 - Education Finance Bill Summary

• General Education Funding: Increases basic formula allowance to $6,863 for FY 2023 and later; appropriates $7.6+ billion for general education aid for FY 2022-2023

• Teacher Support Programs: Establishes "Come Teach in Minnesota" hiring bonuses ($2,500-$8,000) for teachers of color/American Indian teachers; funds "Grow Your Own" teacher preparation programs ($6.5 million annually); requires mentorship programs for new teachers

• Special Education & COVID Recovery: Mandates IEP teams meet by December 1, 2021 to determine if pandemic-related services are needed; appropriates $1.8+ billion for special education aid

• School Meals & Student Dignity: Establishes school meals policies prohibiting "lunch shaming"; requires schools serve free/reduced lunch without withdrawal even with outstanding balances; sets lunch aid at 12.5¢ per paid/free meal, 52.5¢ per reduced meal

• Early Childhood & Other Programs: Adjusts prekindergarten participation limits to 60% of kindergarten units; limits screen time for preschool/kindergarten; funds advanced placement programs, charter school oversight, and various education initiatives including literacy and civic education programs