Financing Schools Brief Analysis

Running head : FINANCING SCHOOLS BRIEF ANALYSIS

Introduction

Funding of public schools is proving to be a challenge to most school districts due to issues of inequality , sources of funds and the allocation /distribution of monies . Taxpayers concerns have limited the imposition of higher taxes to finance urgent reforms in this sector

Constitutionally , states have an obligation to ensure that all schools provide a basic education that complies with set standards . In reality some schools in high poverty districts are unable to meet the minimum standards required by law (Donna et al

, 1997 . Poor tax bases mean that the local authorities cannot raise sufficient funds to provide the basic amenities and resources needed . In a bid to ensure equality , school finance reforms should take into consideration the ability of the district to raise the necessary funds to pay for the required facilities . Poor districts should receive higher state allocations based on the number of poor students and infrastructural developments deemed necessary

Financially challenged school districts should be allowed more leeway in the sourcing of funds to ensure that they make up for the shortfall in budgeted expenditure (Donna et al , 1997 . Setting up of charter schools could improve their financial position while improving accountability The school boards can present a convincing case for increased funding to interested stakeholders keen to see improved academic performances Regular audits will ensure the donated funds have achieved the intended purpose

State legislatures must arrive at a functional method of allocating funds to schools as opposed...