Report Title:

School Modernization Act of 2008

 

Description:

Appropriates funds to modernize Hawaii's schools and classrooms with such items and services as textbooks, supplies, equipment, computers, software licenses, and services.

 


THE SENATE

S.B. NO.

2662

TWENTY-FOURTH LEGISLATURE, 2008

 

STATE OF HAWAII

 

 

 

 

 

A BILL FOR AN ACT

 

 

RELATING TO SCHOOLS.

 

 

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

 


     SECTION 1.  In 2007, the legislature allocated about $190,000,000, or 28 per cent of the state's budget surplus, to the department of education for capital improvements and basic needs, including the repair and maintenance of school facilities, food services, and school bus services.  Of this amount, $40,000,000 was distributed directly to the schools.

     The legislature finds that although their basic needs are addressed -- no less than a safe, comfortable, and well-maintained academic environment -- Hawaii's students also deserve current learning material, modern supplies and equipment, and progressive services that offer real-life learning experiences.  As our education system is tasked with propelling the eventual leaders of our society into the future, it should be provided with the tools to do so.

     The purpose of this Act is to modernize our schools and classrooms by appropriating funds for costs such as textbooks, supplies, equipment, computers, software licenses, and services.  This Act shall be known as the "School Modernization Act of 2008." 

     SECTION 2.  There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $18,000,000 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2008-2009 for non-recurring costs such as textbooks, supplies, equipment, computers, software licenses, and services to modernize schools and classrooms; provided that funds shall be distributed to each school, and to the extent possible, based on a formula of approximately $100 for each student enrolled for the 2008-2009 school year; and provided further that these funds shall not be included in the weighted student formula.

     The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of education for the purposes of this Act.

     SECTION 3.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2008.

 

INTRODUCED BY:

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