Notable Quotable
“Long term, more substantive school finance reforms are needed and the best solution is to untether the relationship between school funding and zip codes. Ideally, local property wealth should play no role in determining school funding levels. Dollars instead should be pooled at the state level and allocated transparently based on enrollment and student needs.”
— Aaron Garth Smith and Christian Barnard, Reason Foundation
School Finance In the News
California’s Funding Plan Shortchanges Charter Schools
California is generously funding schools that lost students, while short-changing schools that are better serving families during this trying time.
How States Can Improve Virtual Education Policies and Adapt During Coronavirus Pandemic
It is crucial that states carefully evaluate their policy frameworks for virtual education so that families and school districts have enough flexibility to adapt to the new educational environment in the years to come.
For More Evidence of Racial Bias, Look No Further Than School Funding
At a time when our country is fiercely divided along partisan lines, school finance reform presents an opportunity for meaningful bipartisan policy change.
The Supreme Court Delivers a Huge Win for Kids
This decision also strikes a blow to the discriminatory “Blaine Amendments” found in 37 state constitutions.
Research and Resources Spotlight
Wyoming’s Equalization Mechanism Supports Fair Funding
A case study of Wyoming’s experience is informative for policymakers who are contemplating school finance system reforms that would boost equity.
Vermont’s School Funding Model Promotes Equity Across School Districts
Vermont abolished the education portion of local property taxes entirely, opting for a statewide property tax to fund schools more evenly.