Outdated Arizona K-12 funding formula negatively impacts students and schools

Arizona’s School Funding Disparities: A Call for Reform

Over four decades ago, Arizona implemented “equalization funding” to ensure fair funding for public schools across the state. However, this promise has not been fulfilled, leaving Arizona students at a disadvantage.

One glaring issue is the funding gap between public charter schools and district schools. On average, students in public charter schools receive $2,300 less in total funding compared to their district peers, a gap that has only widened in recent years.

The disparities are not limited to charter schools. Even within the same county, some district schools receive significantly less per-pupil funding than others, due to variations in funding through bond and override ballot measures.

One major factor contributing to the financial gap is the lack of access to local property taxes for charter schools. Unlike district schools, charter schools cannot utilize bond increases or overrides for capital projects and other needs, forcing them to seek private financing.

Additionally, some school districts receive additional state funding for experienced teachers through the Teacher Experience Index, a benefit not extended to charter schools.

These discrepancies highlight the outdated state funding formula that did not anticipate the rise of charter schools and open enrollment. As a result, Arizona charter schools, despite their academic success, lag behind district schools in funding for teacher compensation, capital construction, and school programs.

It is time for Arizona to reform its school finance system to ensure equal funding for all students, regardless of the type of public school they attend. Arizona’s public district and charter schools deserve fair and equitable funding to provide the best education for all students.