The Choice Channel

“The latest report card on school achievement provides further evidence that we need to change our education funding policy. The current court- imposed policy is based upon a flawed premise that throwing money at a problem will necessarily lead to a solution. However, the report — and history — reveal the contrary. That being the case, we must implement new proposals to enhance educational opportunities. The time is ripe for discussion. We can achieve progress toward implementation of school choice. Despite the fact that billions of dollars have been funneled into the Abbott districts (per-pupil spend ing in Abbott districts was 25 percent to 50 percent higher than in non-Abbott districts), those districts continue to show sub-average student achievement. Conversely, many districts with higher- than-average student achievement spend less per pupil than the state average. While the governor’s budget provides for increased aid to fund education for many municipalities, again: Money alone is not the answer.” (03/29/07)