Protecting and Promoting School Choice

EFI Publications

California Rises in US Education Funding Rankings

California has improved its national ranking to 13th-highest for per-student education funding, surprising many who viewed it as low-spending. This rise reflects increased state investments in K-12 education. The data highlights a shift in California’s position relative to other states.

Key Points

  • California now ranks 13th in the nation for education funding per student.
  • This marks a significant improvement from previous low rankings.
  • The change may surprise residents familiar with the state’s historical funding levels.

Implications for Educational Freedom

Increased funding could potentially support expansions in school choice programs like vouchers or ESAs, enhancing parental empowerment if allocated toward educational freedom initiatives. However, without reforms, it might reinforce government overreach in traditional public schooling.

Source: California’s Education Funding Level Rises Compared to Other States

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