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School Funding Solutions To Consider
In the past 5 years, per-pupil spending in Kansas increased 26%, yet school districts still claim they’re underfunded. With 53% of your state tax dollars going toward schools that aren’t demonstrating accountability, achievement gains and reductions in the dropout rate, it’s natural for you to say ‘enough is enough’ — we have to reduce spending. In the last legislative session, lawmakers considered a vast array of information based on Kansas Dept. of Education reports. We took a hard look at the state education budget and looked for ways to reduce spending. Having been on the Appropriations Committee, the Budget Committee and the Education Committee, I’ve reviewed all the data extensively, and recognize these
potential solutions for future school funding: • Look first to the unspent money in the education budget. Kansas school districts began the 2009-2010 school year with $699 million in unused funds. (That was in addition to money set aside for capital projects and loan payments. • Ask the schools to access the $1.3 billion they’re holding in unencumbered funds. The Kansas Dept. of Education has access to $1.3 billion in year-end, unencumbered balances. Here's proof >> • Find efficiencies through audits. Only 10 of the 293 school districts in Kansas requested an efficiency audit in 2010. The Derby, KS USD 260 found $1 million in savings — imagine what could be saved if even half the districts agreed to behave like good stewards of your tax dollars and perform efficiency audits. Any responsible public trust – like the Kansas Department of Education – owes taxpayers the assurance that they’re educating students efficiently and effectively. Our future depends on it. I welcome your ideas for savings and efficiency improvements in Kansas schools. Together, we can find solutions that benefit students, teachers, parents and taxpayers. Share your thoughts here >>
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| Copyright © 2006-2009 Owen Donohoe Campaign, Rebecca K. Chapman, Treasurer. |
