On paper, per-student funding models promise fairness: every child is worth the same dollar amount. But in practice, a single formula doesn’t reflect unequal needs. A student in a remote northern community, a newcomer learning English, or a child requiring special supports often needs more resources than the formula provides.
The Equity Challenge
Geography matters: Rural and remote schools face higher transportation, staffing, and infrastructure costs.
Diverse needs: Students with disabilities, language barriers, or complex social situations require targeted support.
Urban-rural divides: Densely populated areas may get more per-dollar efficiency, while smaller communities carry heavier costs for basics.
Equal vs. Equitable
“Equal” funding means everyone gets the same. “Equitable” funding means everyone gets what they need. The current debate is whether per-student funding models actually reinforce inequities by treating unequals equally.
The Big Question
Should funding formulas shift from “per student” to “per need”? And if so, who decides what counts as need—and how do we make sure no community gets left behind?
Equity in Per-Student Funding
One Formula, Many Realities
On paper, per-student funding models promise fairness: every child is worth the same dollar amount. But in practice, a single formula doesn’t reflect unequal needs. A student in a remote northern community, a newcomer learning English, or a child requiring special supports often needs more resources than the formula provides.
The Equity Challenge
Equal vs. Equitable
“Equal” funding means everyone gets the same. “Equitable” funding means everyone gets what they need. The current debate is whether per-student funding models actually reinforce inequities by treating unequals equally.
The Big Question
Should funding formulas shift from “per student” to “per need”? And if so, who decides what counts as need—and how do we make sure no community gets left behind?