(a) The state shall provide funds to support the basic structure of the education service cooperatives established under the provisions of this subchapter.
(b) This structure shall include:
(1) Salaries and fringe benefits for a director, a teacher center coordinator, and support staff;
(2) Costs such as travel, utilities, rent, equipment, and supplies;
(3) Funds to support staff and curriculum development activities; and
(4) Funds in an annual amount not to exceed twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) for the travel expenses of itinerant personnel employed by the education service cooperative to serve the part-time needs of local school districts.
(c) School districts may contract with their education service cooperative for services and part-time personnel to be supported in whole or in part by local funds, but no school district shall be assessed a membership fee.
(d) Categorical state or federal funds may also be assigned to any education service cooperative upon approval of its governing body and under conditions set by the State Board of Education.
(e) As a public agency, each education service cooperative shall be eligible to receive and expend public and private funds.