public schools

Senate Amends Reading Plan

Associated Press — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 23:02:15 +0000

Kansas senators have approved a heavily amended version of Gov. Sam Brownback's reading initiative, putting the focus on first-graders.

Top Morning News 3.25.13 (UPDATED)

Briana O’Higgins and Kate Clause — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 10:24:08 +0000

Updated 9:30 AM

The Kansas House and Senate will negotiate differences in their budget proposals; Pilot program for Kansas school districts under consideration; Lawmakers need more information on corporate farming law; Delaware tribe may more headquarters to Kan.

Delaware Tribe May Move Headquarters to Kan.

House Committee Approves Bill That Keeps Abortion Services Out of Public Schools

Kate Clause — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 18:47:56 +0000

A Kansas House committee approved a sweeping anti-abortion bill today.

The Federal and State Affairs Committee approved House Bill 2253, which prevents groups that provide abortion services from being involved in the state's public schools. The measure also aims to keep the state from subsidizing abortions--even indirectly--through tax exemptions or credits.

Top Morning News 2.27.13

Briana O’Higgins and Kate Clause — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 11:59:31 +0000

A Kansas Senate committee rejects Brownbacks third-grade reading plan; University of Kansas study shows DEA reduces risk of pre-term birth.

Senate Panel Rejects Kansas Reading Initiative

A Kansas Senate committee Tuesday rejected Gov. Sam Brownback's proposal to hold back third-graders who fail the state reading test.

Brownback's Reading Plan Gets Hearing

Associated Press — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 14:48:01 +0000

Gov. Sam Brownback's proposal requiring school districts to hold back Kansas third-graders who aren't proficient in reading is getting mixed reviews in the Legislature.

The Senate Education Committee heard testimony Monday on the plan. The proposal includes $10 million in grant money for intervention programs to help third-graders meet state standards in reading.

Brownback policy director Jon Hummell says the goal isn't to keep children from advancing to fourth grade but to improve overall education outcomes, including reducing dropout rates.

Top Morning News 2.26.13

Briana O’Higgins and Kate Clause — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 12:57:50 +0000

Winter weather brings delays and cancellations; Heavy snow won't cure the Kansas drought; Brownback's reading plan draws criticism.

Second Round Of Winter Weather Brings More Cancellations And Delays

Monday's snow storm is winding down and streets are being cleared in Wichita.

Friday School Closings (UPDATED)

Briana O’Higgins — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 13:10:02 +0000

Updated: 5:32 AM

The snow is here, and more is expected. Many schools have canceled classes and activities.

KS Schools Could See Small Boost In Per-Pupil Funding

Associated Press — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 18:20:04 +0000

Kansas' public schools could receive a slight increases in per-student spending starting in fiscal year 2015.

The State House Appropriations Committee accepted a subcommittee's report on K-12 spending Monday morning. The subcommittee's budget allocates more than $3 billion dollars for all public schools. Funding per pupil would remain at $3,838 for fiscal year 2014 but would increase marginally by $14 per pupil starting July 1, 2014.

Brownback Requests Hold On School Funding Ruling

Stephen Koranda — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 11:51:39 +0000

Gov. Sam Brownback is seeking mediation in a lawsuit over school funding.

A district court recently ruled that the state isn't meeting constitutional requirements and needs to increase funding for Kansas schools.

Brownback asked the state Attorney General to seek a hold on the ruling, so all parties involved have time to study solutions. The filings also request the court to appoint a mediator, in attempt to reach an agreement outside of courtroom.

Lawmakers Hear School Efficiency Suggestions

Stephen Koranda — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 11:51:26 +0000

The head of a school efficiency task force Monday presented school efficiency recommendations to lawmakers in Topeka. The House and Senate education committees are meeting jointly this week to review education issues.

Gov. Sam Brownback formed the task force to look for ways to spend education funding more efficiently.