From KASB:

KASB Statement on State Efficiency Study

Kansas school districts are committed to operating both effectively and efficiently, which means using resources to maximize student success and serve the needs of our diverse state communities.

We understand the Legislature’s interest in studying school funding as part of a study of efficiency in state government. We urge them to focus the study on improving results, not just cutting spending.

From extensive research, we know that Kansas has one of the most efficient school systems in the nation, ranking in the top ten for overall educational achievement. Kansas spends less per pupil than every other high achieving state, even when adjusting for regional cost differences.

KASB believes Kansas must focus on and support what helps us improve, not follow the lead of states that perform worse.

Kansas public schools have been the focus of numerous efficiency studies by the Legislative Division of Post Audit, the Center for Innovative School Leadership, Gov. Sam Brownback’s School Efficiency Task Force, and last year’s K-12 Performance and Efficiency Commission. School leaders have participated in each of these efforts.

None of these studies have found significant inefficiencies. What we have learned is that local school boards make difficult – and differing – choices about how to use resources, based on different community values and student needs.

For more information, contact:
Mark Tallman, Associate Executive Director for Advocacy
785-608-4506 (cell)
785-273-3600 (KASB office)