Legislature(2003 - 2004)
2003-03-06 Senate Journal
Full Journal pdf2003-03-06 Senate Journal Page 0396 SB 110 SENATE BILL NO. 110 BY THE SENATE RULES COMMITTEE BY REQUEST OF THE GOVERNOR, entitled: "An Act relating to admission to and advancement in public schools of children under school age; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Health, Education and Social Services and Finance Committees. The following fiscal information was published today: Fiscal Note No. 1, Department of Education and Early Development Governor's transmittal letter dated March 5: Dear President Therriault: Under the authority of art. III, sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill which clarifies local school district programs for under-school-age students. Pursuant to existing statutes, a district may enroll a four year old child, referred to as an "under school age student." The intent of this bill is to prohibit districts from constructing curriculums that offer two years of kindergarten as a standard program. Early entry of four year olds into the school system should be a rare event and reserved for the truly exceptional child. This bill would remove a school district's ability to offer early entry as standard practice to access the foundation formula and provide state funded pre-school programs. Currently, districts can enroll four year olds and then enroll them again as a kindergarten student in the next school year. This action effectively provides a child with two years of kindergarten with very little in the way of extra expense to the district. 2003-03-06 Senate Journal Page 0397 The result to the state is an additional year of per pupil funding equating to approximately $3.9 million. Enrolling four year olds as the current statute provides should be retained. However, early enrolled children should be expected to advance through to the next grade level or grade level equivalent. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely, /s/ Frank H. Murkowski Governor