LINCOLN — Below are statements from OpenSky Policy Institute Executive Director Dr. Rebecca Firestone following Monday’s news conference on state funding for K-12 education.
On importance of local control in addressing the unique needs of local school districts:
“Educating students with individual needs in a time of rising costs can’t be addressed through a one-size-fits-all funding mechanism. Locally elected school board members are best positioned to determine what resources are needed to provide the learning environment and support from teachers to prepare students for a bright future.”
On sustainability of the Education Future Fund:
“Property tax reform in Nebraska depends on the sustainability of increased state aid to K-12 schools. The Education Future Fund, created with a $1 billion investment this year, will be drained within a decade without a sustainable revenue stream that addresses the needs of Nebraska’s students. Ultimately, the sustainability of state aid for K-12 education is critical not just to addressing property tax reform but to ensuring that school funding is sufficient to improve student outcomes.”
“The recent report to the Tax Rate Review Committee shows estimated distributions from the Education Future Fund outpacing projected transfers in after the first year, with the shortfall increasing over time. By FY27, the report shows estimated Education Future Fund distributions at $350 million with just $250 million transferred in.”
Coming soon: OpenSky analysis of local school district budgets
Over the next month, OpenSky will be analyzing the local budget implications of changes in state aid to K-12 school districts passed by the Legislature this year. Transparency in the school financing landscape is essential to provide clarity in how state policymakers and local school districts can establish the resources for all students to achieve.
Contact Todd Henrichs at 402-499-2892 or thenrichs@openskypolicy.org for more information.
