Funding Missouri’s Classrooms
As we enter the final six weeks of the 2011 legislative session, there is much education legislation that is yet to be resolved. Ranging from the revision of the foundation formula, to addressing a court enacted open enrollment process, to finalizing the 2012 budget; there are many decisions that will impact the schools across our state.
The formula currently being used to distribute state education dollars to Missouri’s schools was crafted in 2005. Unfortunately, due to the economic downturn, this new formula was not fully phased-in as state revenue did not keep pace with the incremental increases needed. As a result, the formula must be modified to account for this reality. Changes of this magnitude would be a challenge in any climate, and it will only be compounded during a budget shortfall. With more than 70 school districts operating within the 12th Senate District, I represent school districts on every side of the issue. As we work to reach an equitable solution, I will do everything possible to help the greatest number of schools in our region of the state.
Following a court decision in St. Louis, school districts must now admit students from neighboring districts if those students live in a failing district. Although this may sound logical, the real world implications are not so practical. For example, when additional students are simply added to a district, it impacts building capacity, classroom size, funding requirements, the number of teachers needed while creating logistical issues such as transportation responsibilities outside a districts normal boundary. As we work to address the issues brought about because of this court decision, we must not forget that this complex issue cannot be resolved with a broad brush as the needs of rural and urban districts are different.
Next week, the Senate will begin working on our version of the 2012 budget. We must prioritize our spending and find the money necessary to fund the fundamental educational programs such as the school foundation formula, school transportation, and Parents as Teachers. I believe these should be our top priorities, and it is time to make the tough decisions necessary to make this a reality.
Now more than ever, we must stay focused on the future of our state thereby keeping our commitment to Missouri’s school children. We must provide the support necessary to create a climate in which teachers can teach and children can learn. Quite simply, Missouri’s children deserve a quality education, and I am committed to making sure it happens.
As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns. The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is brad.lager@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 422, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.
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