Kevin: K-12 Funding Next To Last

We’re still No. 50 — or, if you prefer, we’re still ahead of Utah. Idaho’s per-pupil spending ranked next to last in 2008-09, according to a new Census Bureau report issued today. Idaho spent $7,092 per pupil in 2008-09, compared to a national average of $10,499. Only Utah ranked below Idaho, with per-pupil spending of $6,356; however, the state-by-state rankings also included the District of Columbia, so Idaho’s final ranking was 50th. The 2008-09 results mirror 2007-08, when Idaho’s per-pupil spending of $6,931 again surpassed only Utah/ Kevin Richert , Idaho Statesman. More here.

DFO: Mebbe we should develop a slogan for public education in Idaho — something along the lines of “Next to Imperfect: Next to Last.”

Question: Is anyone but the Idaho Legislature proud of the funding that we provide for our public education system?