Help for Poor Schools

Poor schools could get a funding boost if House Bill 1 passes today, according to the Houston Chronicle. The bill is supported by top school groups like the Texas Association of School Boards and the Texas School Alliance, which includes HISD and most of the urban school districts in the state. At least, it’s partially supported.

HB1 would use almost $4 billion in surplus to pay for property tax cuts, raise teacher pay and boost high school funding. It would also mandate one set fall semester start date for all public schools, and require more math and science classes for high school students. None of this seems to be a problem.

It’s the funding equity amendment that’s causing a stir. It would reduce the gap in funding between rich and poor school districts and lower the amount of money the wealthy districts give to the poor. And here is where both the equity and controversy come in. The state would be required to make up the difference, costing between $300 million and $700 million a year.

photo from pixelcharmer.com