Ensuring Equal Education

 

In most states a school’s funding is tied to the wealth of the neighborhoods it serves. Even though economically disadvantaged students need the most help, under this system schools in poorer neighborhoods are often unable to replicate the quality of education provided by other schools. Every state across the country needs to pursue school funding reform to ensure that no student is limited academically because of the school district they happen to live in.

Dream of a Nation Partner
Meaningful Educational Opportunity for All

Campaign for Educational EquityThe Campaign for Educational Equity is a nonprofit research and policy center at Teachers College, Columbia University, that champions the right of all children to meaningful educational opportunity and works to define and secure the full range of resources, supports, and services necessary to provide this opportunity. Read more.


Read the Campaign for Educational Equity essay: "Fair School Funding and Equal Opportunities"

Read the Campaign for Educational Equity essay

Endnotes & References

Tipping the Scales

 

What Can I Do?

Petition your state legislature

Why? Most school-related legislation occurs at the state level, where politicians are often very receptive to constituent concerns.

 

What If?

Q.  What if the achievement gap between rich and poor students was closed?

A.  The U.S. GDP would rise between $400 and $670 billion, and we could save around $250 billion in costs related to dropouts like welfare, Medicaid, and criminal justice.

Q.  What if every state followed the equal-funding example currently being set by New Jersey?

A.  After a landmark court decision, New Jersey passed legislation testing a new system of equal school funding. Early returns are very promising. Test scores at urban schools receiving the extra funding have risen 22 points.