
Working to Strengthen Our Schools
Nebraska districts rely on property taxes to fund our schools more than nearly every other state. The state funding formula, TEEOSA, has been tinkered with repeatedly to the detriment of our students. In many years, the Legislature has not even fully funded state aid to schools based on the formula’s recommendation and, as a result, districts like Millard are receiving less money now from the state than they were in 2010.
I will work to review and reform the state funding formula for schools to ensure that our districts are getting the necessary resources from the state so school districts do not have to rely so heavily on property taxes to fund education for our children.
I will also work to provide those districts that develop strong programs for college and career readiness with the funding and support needed to make those programs successful.
Funding our schools properly is needed to improve outcomes for our students and to provide genuine property tax relief for Nebraskans. Elkhorn and Millard voters have demonstrated their support for quality education time and time again with successful bond and levy override votes. But it is time for the state to step up and do its part in funding education for our kids and our community. In fact, it is a Constitutional responsibility for the state to fund education.
The education of our children – our next generation of workers and job-creators – is essential to Nebraska’s long-term economic growth and is one of my priorities. I believe that by investing in education, we can build a strong foundation for economic success and prosperity.