Financing California’s Public Schools

Julien Lafortune and Brett Guinan

K–12 funding has reached record highs in recent years, and California’s per student spending is above the national average. Spending is higher for low-income students, English Learners, and foster youth. However, enrollment declines, chronic absenteeism, and rising costs pose fiscal challenges for school districts.

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For additional resources, visit PPIC’s K–12 education page.

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