California School Funding at Record Highs, Yet Fiscal Challenges Loom.
A PPIC analysis finds K–12 funding at record highs, with per-student spending above the national average and higher funding for low-income students, English Learners, and foster youth, but districts face enrollment declines, chronic absenteeism, and rising costs.
Why It Matters
California education leaders need to navigate the gap between record funding levels and growing fiscal pressures from shrinking enrollment and rising expenses.