School Finance

A large body of evidence demonstrates that adequate and equitable financing of public schools is a wise investment in our children’s success and future, improving a range of outcomes for all students. Yet disparities in school funding shortchange many children in the United States: The highest-spending districts spend nearly 10 times more on students than the lowest-spending districts in the United States, and children who live in low-income neighborhoods often attend the most under-resourced schools. Research has shown that underserved student groups—such as those from low-income families, students experiencing homelessness, foster students, students of color, and students with disabilities—are even more marginalized by funding disparities, as these students face barriers to learning opportunities they need to grow and thrive. 

Research from the Learning Policy Institute works to identify the causes, impacts, and solutions needed to address inequitable school funding for all students, especially financing for high-need students.