Each year, school districts across Washington receive several new state requirements. Although the requirements are purposeful and intended to support student outcomes, funding has not kept pace.
An analysis of BGPS' budget found that in just one year, recent state mandates will create an estimated $17.30 million to $29.68 million in additional costs for the district. Examples of just some of the requirements include:
Sales tax requirements
Discipline rules
Activity fee waivers
Benefits for contracted transportation staff
Energy audits and required efficiency upgrades
Ultimately, unfunded mandates limit districts’ ability to respond to student needs and increase the likelihood of program reductions unless state funding is aligned.