Funding Cuts Assessment
The following framework reflects the messages and policies most important for a school funding system that improves outcomes for all students. Additional resources on these topics are also provided.
Student-centered funding and instruction
1. Fund students, not bureaucracies or institutions; this requires not only student-centered funding but also student-centered instruction and opportunity.
Accountability for outcomes
2. It isn’t about spending more money but improving outcomes, which means increasing local control as long as there is accountability and successful schools are rewarded.
Focus on all students
3. Our state needs all students to succeed in college and career, which justifies extra funding for certain students as long as they aren’t trapped in poorly-managed schools.
Competition and choice
4. Competition and choice are critical companions to a strong funding system, as schools will use money more effectively if success means growth and dissatisfied students can leave.
Financial transparency, tools and district capacity
5. Money can make a difference but only if it is used effectively, which means focusing resources on evidence-based strategies in the classroom.
State resources
6. The state needs to direct resources to priorities, like early literacy, where there are poor outcomes statewide and districts cannot make enough progress acting independently.