Some historical context…

Gov. Butch Otter’s proposal to increase state funding for public schools next year by 7.9 percent is the biggest percentage increase the third-term governor has proposed for schools since he took office. For context, here are his past proposed school budget increases:

Current year (Fiscal Year 2016): 7.4 percent

FY 2015: 2.9 percent

FY 2014: 2 percent

FY 2013: 2.6 percent

FY 2012: 1.8 percent

FY 2011: -1.2 percent (negative)

FY 2010: -5.3 percent (negative)

FY 2009: 5.3 percent

FY 2008: 5.5 percent

Here’s what lawmakers approved:

Current year (FY 2016): 7.4 percent

FY 2015: 5.1 percent

FY 2014: 2.2 percent

FY 2013: 4.6 percent

FY 2012: -4.9 percent (negative)

FY 2011: 5.7 percent

FY 2010: -7.7 percent (negative)

FY 2009: 3.7 percent

FY 2008: 5.9 percent