More educational opportunity through sharing

     I am pleased to have passed legislation to help our rural schools continue a successful initiative.

     Since 2008, many Iowa schools have shared some staff and administrative positions, including superintendents, business management, human resources, transportation and maintenance.

     The state provides financial incentives to schools that opt to share positions. Ultimately, the schools and the state save money while boosting educational excellence. Right now, 230 districts get state incentive money to share administrators.

     Out of 14 school districts in our region, seven are currently using this program. It allows more effective use of available funding.

HF 633 continues this program, which was set to expire, and eliminates restrictions on how long schools can participate.

     The incentives promote good working relationships between neighboring school districts and help smaller schools meet students’ educational needs with limited resources. This program is a lifeline for rural communities with declining populations, especially after several years of inadequate state funding for schools.

     I created a short video explaining how sharing is helping school districts in my rural area. I highlight the sharing efforts of Andrew and Easton Valley. Check it out on my State Senator Tod Bowman Facebook page