NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

Only the most recent FIR version, excluding attachments, is available on the Intranet. Previously issued FIRs and attachments may be obtained from the LFC office in Suite 101 of the State Capitol Building North.

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Duplicates SB360

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

State Department of Public Education (SDE)

Commission on Higher Education (CHE)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

House Bill 515 appropriates $260.0 from the general fund to CHE for the purpose of contracting to provide a program that trains middle school teachers to improve their skills, technical knowledge and teaching techniques in science, mathematics and technology.

Significant Issues

According to SDE, the majority of teachers currently teaching at the middle school grades have little or no formal training in adolescent development. This bill will provide additional professional development for teachers to meet the needs of middle school students.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $260.0 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of fiscal year 2002 shall revert to the general fund.

ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS

CHE indicates that there would be some administrative impact on CHE staff; however it could be handled by existing staff.

CONFLICT/DUPLICATION/COMPANIONSHIP/RELATIONSHIP

Duplicates SB360.

OTHER SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES

The following is provided for information only, it is not intended as a commentary on the merits of the program.

This project was not presented to the CHE for funding consideration.

CTF/njw