WPU Increase
Governor Herbert has requested a 4.75% increase to the Weighted Pupil Unit (WPU). Lawmakers are suggesting a 2.5% increase due to other funding priorities.
SB38 – There is confusion surrounding public education bill SB38. Here is some background information and the facts about SB38:
- Charter schools are funded with local replacement funds on a weighted state average. This funding for charters amounts to more money than some school districts (i.e. Jordan School District) and less than others (i.e. Park City).
- Last year the legislature attempted to equalize funding for school districts and charters through SB97.
- To better equalize the funding, SB97 gave JSD $3.9 million this year and is projected to give JSD another $3 million next year.
- Due to an oversight with SB97, some school districts received more than charter schools (Approx. $69 more per child in Jordan).
- SB38 attempts to correct this oversight, but it goes beyond and gives charters a new higher average by including the new funds given to districts through last years SB97.
- The end result means once again, charters will receive more funding than roughly half the state. Jordan School District students will be funded less than charters by approximately $240 per student.
HB193 – This bill eliminates local replacement funding and allows lawmakers to establish a property tax rate specifically to fund charter schools. The goal is to create accountability and transparency in funding. School districts would no longer be required to tax on behalf of charters.
HB28 – Provides qualifying grants for districts to use for comprehensive, sustained and evidence-based professional learning programs. These programs must improve the effectiveness of teachers and principals in raising student achievement. Jordan could apply for this grant to help with professional development, which is a priority in the District.
HB277 – Creates the Digital Teaching and Learning Grant Program to improve educational outcomes in our schools by effectively incorporating comprehensive digital teaching and learning technology. We could apply for this grant as part of Jordan’s plan to continue professional development in technology and provide technical support to our schools.
Thank you to our local lawmakers for working so hard on behalf of our children and their education. We appreciate your accessibility and support.