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TESTIMONIES
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BLUE VALLEY SUPPORTS HB 2330 DESIGNATING NOVEMBER 14 AS RUBY BRIDGES WALK TO SCHOOL DAY
Blue Valley Schools supports HB 2330, designating November 14 as Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day in Kansas. The event has provided meaningful, community-driven educational experiences without disrupting curriculum, reinforcing the district’s commitment to student success.
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BLUE VALLEY URGES RECONSIDERATION OF SB 48 DUE TO LOCAL CONTROL CONCERNS
Blue Valley School District opposes SB 48, which introduces stricter requirements for school district accreditation and could lead to the loss of accreditation for non-compliance with federal and state laws. Blue Valley believes that accreditation should be determined by the Kansas Department of Education and the State Board of Education, not the legislature. Blue Valley is concerned that the bill reduces local control and takes a punitive approach to schools.
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BLUE VALLEY SUPPORTS HB 2129 TO STRENGTHEN TEACHER RETIREMENT BENEFITS
Blue Valley School District supports HB 2129, which would transfer teachers from the KPERS 3 cash balance plan to the KPERS 2 plan and clarify the definition of teachers under KPERS. With more than 1,950 certified employees, Blue Valley is committed to investing in its educators to maintain high-quality instruction for students. This bill would enhance the district’s ability to recruit and retain teachers by offering more competitive retirement benefits, especially as it competes with other districts and the private sector for top talent.
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DISTRICT OPPOSES HB 2136 EXPANDING TAX CREDITS FOR PRIVATE SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS
Blue Valley School District opposes HB 2136, which would expand tax-credit scholarships for private schools and increase tax credits for donors. Addressed to Chair Estes and the committee, the testimony stresses that public funds should not support private schools unless they meet the same standards and accountability as public schools. Additionally, expanding this program could cost the state up to $20 million. Blue Valley remains committed to providing high-quality education for all students.
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DISTRICT OPPOSES SB 87 EXPANDING TAX CREDITS FOR PRIVATE SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS
Blue Valley School District opposes SB 87, which would expand tax-credit scholarships for private schools and increase tax credits for donors. Addressed to Chair Erickson and the committee, the testimony emphasizes that public funds should not support private schools unless they meet the same standards and accountability as public schools. Additionally, expanding this program could cost the state up to $20 million. Blue Valley remains committed to providing high-quality education for all students.
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DISTRICT OPPOSES SB 75 EXPANDING TAX CREDITS AND VOUCHERS FOR PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Blue Valley Schools has submitted written comments in opposition to SB 75, a proposed education opportunity tax credit program that would expand the tax credit program for any taxpayer with eligible dependent children, regardless of income. The Blue Valley Board of Education opposes public funding of private schools that are not held to the same standards and governance as public schools. With a commitment to providing every student with high-quality educational opportunities, Blue Valley urges lawmakers to prioritize investments in public education that benefit all Kansas students.
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DISTRICT ADVOCATES FOR CONTINUED SPED FUNDING
Blue Valley supports the Kansas State Department of Education's (KSDE) budget proposal. The proposed budget is critical to maintaining the quality of education in Kansas, particularly for our students with special education needs. If approved, this funding will help ensure that Blue Valley and districts across the state can continue providing the resources and support necessary for all students to succeed. Without continued funding for SPED excess costs and the Governor’s request for AP test appropriations, we risk undermining the educational opportunities for students who need it most.
