(a)
(1) As funding is available, the Department of Education may provide transportation funding aid to school districts that transport students to a regional community alternative learning environment center that serves three (3) or more contiguous counties in which the most recent census indicates:
(A) High rates of poverty; or
(B) Declining population.
(2) The school may also receive funding for transportation under this section from other state agencies, federal agencies, or from private donations.
(b) A school district may use the state categorical funding it receives under § 6-20-2305(b)(4) to provide transportation for students who reside in the school district to attend a regional community alternative learning environment center.