SF2285

The bill, S.F. No. 2285, proposes an amendment to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 124D.81, subdivision 2b, which pertains to American Indian education aid. The key change in the bill is the removal of the requirement that an American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (AIPAC) must concur for a school district to receive this aid.

Currently, if a school district or Tribal contract school does not use the full amount of its American Indian education aid in the designated fiscal year, it is allowed to carry forward up to half of the remaining funds to the next fiscal year. However, this is only allowed if:

1. The district follows the approved plan for using the funds.
2. The American Indian Parent Advisory Committee is aware of and approves the carry-forward and concurs with the district’s educational programs for American Indian students.
3. The carried-over funds are used in alignment with Minnesota law regarding American Indian education.
4. By April 1, the district provides a report to the Minnesota Department of Education explaining why the funds were not spent and how they will be used in the next year.

The proposed amendment removes the requirement that the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee must concur with the school's educational programs for American Indian students for aid eligibility. The other conditions of the carry-over process remain unchanged.

Impact of the Bill:

• Removes AIPAC’s veto power over a district’s ability to receive and use American Indian education aid.
• Gives school districts more autonomy in spending unused funds while still requiring them to submit a report to the Department of Education.
• Could reduce the influence of AIPAC in ensuring districts are properly serving American Indian students.