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Bill

LC 1777

Fund 6th graders in middle school at high school ANB rates along with 7th and 8th graders

2025 Regular Session

Extends high school per-pupil funding rates to 6th graders in middle schools, increasing state education spending to align 6th grade funding with 7th-8th grades.

(LC) Draft Delivered to Requester
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Bill Summary · LC 1777

Legislative bill overview

Bill LC 1777 would extend high school per-pupil funding rates to 6th grade students in middle schools, aligning their funding with 7th and 8th graders who already receive these rates. Currently, 6th graders appear to be funded at a lower rate despite attending middle school alongside older students.

Why is this important

School funding formulas directly affect resources available for instruction, facilities, and services. This change could increase state education spending while potentially improving educational equity by ensuring consistent funding levels across all middle school grades, though it may also create new disparities with 5th graders in elementary schools.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Expanding high school funding rates to an additional grade level will increase state education costs; the exact amount depends on Montana's per-pupil funding differential
  • Grade configuration questions: The bill raises questions about why 6th grade should receive high school rates when it's typically a middle school grade, and whether this addresses actual educational needs or creates arbitrary funding distinctions
  • Broader funding equity: Critics may argue resources should be allocated based on educational outcomes or student needs rather than grade level, and that this change doesn't address funding gaps elsewhere in the system

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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