SB373 would allow students to attend any district, tuition free

A bill that is currently is the Missouri Senate could make a tidal wave of change if passed into law, allowing students to attend any district they wish, without paying tuition.

The bill, which was introduced by Senator Rob Mayer, is modeled after an Iowa program. According to Mayer, only about four percent of Iowa students have transferred out of their home districts under the state's program.

"A lot of people believe that because of this open enrollment law, they have created a more competitive system," Mayer said.

The bill, Senate Bill 373, states that for the school year beginning July 1, 2010, students currently enrolled in a public school may enroll in a public school in another district.

In order for the change to take effect, the student's parent or guardian must notify the child's current school district and the district they are seeking to enroll in by January 15 of the preceding school year. The intent to change the student's enrollment must be recorded on an application provided by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, according to the bill.

The bill also states that if a parent fails to provide notification by January 15, they may do so until the third Friday in July of that calendar year, provided that the parent has good cause to do so, as described in the act. An application for enrollment may be granted at any time with the approval of the child's school district of residence and the receiving district.

"Parents need the opportunity to find a school that best meets the needs of their kids," Mayer said, adding that some may have better programs that students can't be a part of if they are not in that district.

Mayer also said that while the bill would probably have little affect in larger cities, it would give students in rural areas more options to seek the education that they feel they need.

If the bill does in fact become law, Mayer said there would be some strict guidelines.

Mayer said there would be a provision that would not allow a student to keep going back-and-forth, over-and-over. He also said that if a student changes districts and wishes to compete in the new district's sporting events, there would be a one-year waiting period before they are allowed to compete.

Critics have pointed out several potential problems with the bill.

One issue being looked into is the money the district receives for each student. Mayer said that the money would travel to the new district with the student.

Another issue said it could force district's to have to raise their property taxes to educate students from areas with lower tax levels.

Mayer said the details are still working out and the Senate is setting up a committee to study the ramifications of the bill.

For a complete version of the bill, click HERE.