What is the school funding formula?

The school funding formula, or the way Washington State allocates money to school districts, is determined by a complicated set of rules and regulations designed to ensure that all students, regardless of the district in which they live, receive a quality education. The basic framework was established by the Washington State Supreme Court’s McCleary Decision, which declared that the state must meet a funding obligation to all of its public schools. The formula first considers the base amount of funding that every school receives from the state, regardless of other factors. The amount is determined by basic student enrollment and takes into account student needs. The funding also considers the local levy and any federal funding, which are both based on the needs and characteristics of the district. Finally, the formula considers other factors that the state considers necessary for the education of students, such as teacher-student ratios and class sizes. Though the formula is complex, its goal is to ensure that all districts receive adequate funding to meet the needs of their students and provide them with a quality education. With the McCleary Decision and the school funding formula, Washington State is committed to making sure that all students have a fair opportunity to excel and pursue their dreams.

Related FAQs

What are the legal requirements for distributing free and reduced-price lunch?
What is religious liberty in the school setting?
What is the role of the state in education law?
What is the legal responsibility of teachers regarding the education of students with disabilities?
What is the purpose of FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)?
What are some current education law issues?
What is the difference between religious and secular education?
What is the Americans with Disabilities Act?
What is due process in the school setting?
How does the law affect bilingual education?

Related Blog Posts

Understanding Education Law for Parents - July 31, 2023
An Overview of School District Liability Under Education Law - August 7, 2023
What Every Student Should Know About Educational Law - August 14, 2023
Protecting the Rights of Disabled Students in Education Law - August 21, 2023
Understanding the Role of the Family in Education Law - August 28, 2023