A graphic of a school and a graphic showing increased funding gaps

School funding 101: State funding gaps

Battle Ground Public Schools

November 13, 2025

State funding is one of the largest sources of revenue for Washington's public schools. The state decides how to send money to schools based on their formula of what they believe an average school needs. The formula has been criticized, however, for not recognizing the unique circumstances of each school or reflecting the real cost of keeping a school open.

Since 2019, the percentage of the state's operating budget that is dedicated to K-12 education funding has decreased from 52.4% to 43.1%. The state's paramount duty, as outlined in its constitution, is to make ample provision for the education of all children residing within its borders.

Over the last four years, Battle Ground Public Schools has been underfunded by millions. Below are just a few examples:

Sampling of state funding gaps 2021-2025. Teaching: Cost: $238.50M State funding: $203M Battle Ground is underfunded by $35.54 million. Safety/security: Cost: $12.06M State funding: $609K Battle Ground is underfunded by $11.45 million. Substitute costs: Cost: $11.85M State funding: $1.13M Battle Ground is underfunded by $10.72 million. Athletics/activities: Cost: $11.85M State funding: $1.13M Battle Ground is underfunded by $10.72 million.

Educational programs and operations levies have helped to fill in the gaps between state funding and what it costs to educate students. In past years, EP&O levy dollars represented the second largest source of funds for Battle Ground Public Schools.

Chart showing BGPS' revenue vs. expenditures over the past three years.

The current educational programs and operations levy will expire at the end of December 2025. Beginning in January 2026, Battle Ground Public Schools will not receive any educational programs and operations levy funding.