MO HB2053

Establishes the A+ Schools Program to award grants to public secondary schools demonstrating commitment to graduating all students, ensuring rigorous coursework, and preparing students for college or high-wage employment.

Allows eligible students who attended A+ qualifying schools for at least three years to receive reimbursement for tuition, books, and fees at public community colleges, vocational/technical schools, or accredited nonprofit two-year private vocational/technical schools.

Permits school districts to be excused from professional development spending requirements and certain fund placement requirements during fiscal years 2011-2012 if state appropriations for basic aid or transportation fall below specified thresholds.

Allows school districts to transfer unobligated funds from the capital projects fund to the incidental fund during fiscal years 2011-2013 by board resolution, and permits transfers of capital projects fund interest to the incidental fund.

Enables students with bus commutes exceeding one hour to enroll in receiving districts with shorter travel times (one-half or less), with state aid following the student to the receiving district.