South Dakota’s public school districts are in line to receive a state aid increase above inflation for the 2021-22 school year.

 

At her budget address on Tuesday (12/8), Gov. Kristi Noem proposed a 2.4 percent increase in state aid, which is above the 1.5 percent inflation level required to be provided in state law, for Fiscal Year 2022.

 

Gov. Noem noted in her address the increase would “ensure local school districts have the resources” to educate their students. The 2.4 percent increase would provide $19.3 million in new money in the general fund of school districts.

 

In addition, Gov. Noem proposed $11 million in one-time funds for school districts for next year to “provide a bridge past the pandemic” an assist schools dealing with “declining enrollments” due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

“We’re obviously grateful to Gov. Noem for her commitment to our public school districts,” ASBSD Executive Director Wade Pogany said. “The additional on-going funds, and the one-time money, will mean a great deal to our public schools as they continue to provide high quality education to their students.”

 

“Providing on-going funding above inflation also shows a clear support of the plan established by the Blue Ribbon Task Force to remain competitive in average teacher pay and retain our wonderful teachers, who have faced an incredible challenge in schools during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

 

Gov. Noem’s budget proposal will be reviewed by the legislature, which convenes the 2021 legislative session on January 12, and ultimately voted on in March of next year.

 

For updates on state aid, the budget proposal and other legislation related to public education, check the ASBSD Blog and Bill Tracker page throughout the upcoming legislative session.