LEGISLATIVE
FAQ - LEARNING YEAR
The following is to help everyone understand the difference between the the two main types of learning year programs. When talking or writing to legislators we need to make this difference well known. If you have questions, please contact Chris Thompson at chris.thompson@moundsviewschools.org.
LEARNING YEAR
Learning Year Legislation is what provides State Approved Alternative
Programs the ability to provide services for the entire year and collect
general education revenue for students who generate more than one ADM.
Learning year can best be described by the following:
|
Core School Day:
|
September to June, traditional school year, approximately 6 hours per day, as defined by the local school district |
|
Extended Day:
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Occurs at the end of the traditional School day |
|
Extended Year:
|
Summer school from June to September |
Learning year is divided into two strands. Whereas many of the Learning Year laws are applicable to both, there is a philosophical difference between the strands. The most prominent difference is that one strand deals with acceleration (Learning Year A), the other giving statute defined at-risk students the ability to increase their skill level or make up necessary credits (Learning Year B).
Learning Year A
- Intent of this strand is for acceleration and that the students who participate will graduate before their peers.
- The program will not have the effect of increasing the total number of pupil units attributable to an individual pupil as a result of a learning year program.
- Programming must occur for the entire year. However, Learning Year designation is at the option of the district/school.
- Districts can apply for approval and designate the grade level(s) served.
- Focus is academic only.
Learning Year B
- Intent is to increase skill levels and/or credit retrieval\
- Students can generate more than 13 ADM's as long as progress is being made toward graduation.
- Programming must occur for the entire year, with a legislated mandate that Area Learning Centers provide instruction throughout the entire year.
- Only Area Learning Centers can be Learning Year and Learning Year services must be provided for all ALC levels.
- Focus is on the 'whole learner'
Similarities:
- Both require an application
and approval process, with the process being different for both strands.
- Provide instruction throughout
the entire year
- Both generate General
Education Revenue
- A continual learning plan
must be developed for each pupil.
- Similar record keeping
systems
- Both strands are capped
at 1.5 ADM's