Assignment

In the United States Constitution, the Tenth Amendment delegates the responsibility of school funding to individual states; however, the ways in which the individual states raise money to fund their school systems vary and are based upon the individual state's interpretation. Ironically, every state must provide their students with a thorough and efficient education from grade 1 to grade 12. Each state has a different educational structure and unique way to fund their educational system. Although every state implements a different funding formula and structure for financing education, local municipality taxes, state, and federal funds are vital revenues to fund public education. Public education revenue is drawn from three sources: federal, state, and local.

In 2007, the Federal government spent $71.7 billion on elementary and secondary Education programs. These funds were spent by 13 federal departments and multiple agencies. Department of Education's spent $39.2 billion on K-12 education. The largest programs in the Department of Education's elementary and secondary budget were "Education for the disadvantaged" ($14.8 billion) and "Special Education" ($11.5 billion) (United States Department of Education, 2008, August 19).

Assignment Preparation:

Utilizing an internet search engine, do a search using Public School Funding by State. Locate your state and outline the school funding formula, structure, and parameters established. In your opinion, describe if the system is efficient and promotes equity for all students and tax payers. Explain the aspects of the structure and what if anything needs to be improved. Your response should outline the various funding sources such as: local, state and federal level. If applicable, discuss how these funds are generated and allocated.

Criteria:

Length: 5-7 pages not including reference page.

References: A minimum of 5 scholarly resources.