The November 2024 election results provide insight into evolving community priorities for K12 education. A closer look at 12 states reveals a range of ballot measures influencing funding, governance and educational standards.
For district leaders, these outcomes highlight community sentiment and a mandate for responsive leadership as public opinion shifts. Research confirms that, despite varied approaches, Americans consistently seek stronger schools and accountability.
Here’s how these new policies could reshape education and what they mean for district leaders facing increasing scrutiny.
Funding: Expanding—or rethinking—the pie
With state-level measures supporting increased funding through various means, many districts can expect expanded resources—often through unconventional channels.
Arkansas: Lottery-funded vocational training
Arkansas’s Issue 1 directs lottery proceeds to fund vocational scholarships aligned to workforce needs. This reflects a broader trend of linking education to economic goals, resonating with the public’s call for practical, skills-oriented education.
California: $10 billion investment in education infrastructure
California voters passed Proposition 2, a hefty $10 billion bond for K12 and community college infrastructure improvements. This commitment prioritized under-resourced districts, giving long-overdue updates to facilities that need it most. California’s bold infrastructure play may be a harbinger for similar measures in states where building conditions fall short of student needs.
Missouri: Gambling revenues for early literacy
Missouri’s Amendment 5, directing gambling revenues to early literacy, highlights the public’s belief in early intervention for long-term success. Public opinion shows broad support for literacy-focused initiatives that are seen as investments in students’ foundational skills.
New Mexico: Capital funding for educational resources
New Mexico’s Bond Questions 2 and 3 funnel $19 million and $230 million into public schools, tribal institutions and libraries, reflecting a strong commitment to resource equity.
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Research supports that diversified revenue streams promote resilience in educational funding. But districts must be cautious when relying on sources like gambling or lottery funds, which can fluctuate. Leaders are encouraged to engage communities in transparent discussions about funding, explaining both the benefits and limitations of these approaches.
School Choice and governance: Defining boundaries
School choice remains a divisive issue, with voters showing varying levels of support. This year’s outcomes reveal a preference for balancing choice with a commitment to public school funding.
Colorado: Emphasizing mental health over school choice
Colorado’s Proposition KK, imposing a firearms excise tax to fund school mental health programs, and the rejection of Amendment 80, a school choice initiative, reflect the public’s prioritization of student well-being. The decision aligns with surveys showing high public concern for safety and mental health, indicating that communities may favor supporting existing school functions over new alternatives.
Florida: Preserving nonpartisan school boards
By rejecting Amendment 1, which would have allowed partisan school board elections, Florida voters signaled a desire for neutral governance. This trend toward depoliticizing school boards may serve as a model for other states, where communities similarly prioritize stability in education over political division.
Kentucky and Nebraska: Supporting public school funding only
Both states defeated measures—Amendment 2 and Referendum 45—that would have redirected public funds to private education, reaffirming a commitment to public education. This confirms a public preference for strengthening public school funding, aligning with national survey data showing that a majority of Americans support public schools as a foundation for equal opportunity.
Districts should remain attuned to these preferences as they develop budgets and communicate with their communities. Transparency is key, especially where school choice could impact public school resources.
Expanding flexibility and localized control
Several states are promoting flexibility in graduation requirements and resource management, indicating a shift toward more adaptive, community-specific solutions.
Massachusetts: Moving beyond standardized testing
Massachusetts voters approved Question 2, eliminating MCAS as a graduation requirement. For districts, this could mean the opportunity to implement skills-based or project-based assessments, which may better align with both community values and modern educational goals. Research reveals growing public support for alternative assessments, with many viewing standardized tests as inadequate measures of student potential.
Alabama: Local resources for school support
Alabama’s Amendment 1, which allows Franklin County to use local land resources for education funding, demonstrates a community-centered approach to financing. Similar strategies could inspire rural districts elsewhere to think creatively about leveraging local assets for schools. Research indicates that community-driven initiatives increase trust and accountability, as funds are kept close to home.
Utah: Increased state fund cap for K12
By raising the State School Fund cap from 4% to 5%, Utah provides districts greater flexibility to manage budget increases as needed. This change acknowledges the public’s call for adaptable funding solutions, especially in states with fluctuating populations and economic uncertainties.
These changes reflect a growing demand for education systems that respond to local needs, fostering a culture where districts can address the specific requirements of their communities.
Lessons from past funding mechanisms: Managing risks
Historically, revenue sources like gambling and lotteries have bolstered state budgets, but their volatility poses challenges. For instance, states like California initially saw increased funding with lottery revenues, but public interest waned over time, causing funding gaps. As districts explore new funding avenues, it’s vital to communicate these risks to stakeholders, ensuring transparency around long-term planning and sustainability.
Given the post-ESSER uncertainty and the shifting national governance environment, it is not safe to assume that state legislators, Congress or voters will “bail out” districts. This is made even more acute with student enrollment falling, necessitating the right-sizing of school workforces and, often, school closures.
Engaging community members early and often in the resource discussions can mitigate misunderstandings and build support. Regular updates on how funds are allocated, especially from variable sources, can prevent issues and maintain trust.
Practical actions for fiscal accountability and community engagement
With increased funding comes the responsibility of fiscal oversight. District boards can reinforce accountability by adopting transparent practices and maintaining open lines of communication with their communities.
- Implement regular budget audits: Conducting audits quarterly ensures that funds are managed responsibly—and results should be publicly available. This prevents misuse and reassures stakeholders of the district’s commitment to transparency.
- Publicly accessible financial reports: Posting financial statements and visualizations online offers clear visibility into district spending, providing context for each expenditure and addressing concerns before they escalate.
- Independent review for high-value contracts. External reviews or third-party audits for substantial contracts add another layer of oversight, ensuring that vendor selections are impartial and funds are allocated efficiently.
- Establish community advisory boards. Districts can create advisory boards with teachers, parents and community leaders to gather feedback on budget priorities and initiatives. Such boards foster dialogue and transparency, keeping community interests at the forefront of decision-making.
Studies show that districts practicing open communication and accountability see higher public support and improved relations with local stakeholders. By involving the community in these processes, districts can strengthen the perception of fiscal responsibility.
A call to action for superintendents and boards
As legislative sessions begin and districts prepare budgets, superintendents and boards face a pivotal moment. This election cycle emphasizes the public’s desire for transparency, responsible spending and investment in proven educational priorities.
With ESSER funding winding down and calls for tighter budgets, district leaders have a unique opportunity to demonstrate leadership by adopting proactive financial measures and community engagement strategies.
- Work with legislators early. Engage with state representatives to advocate for flexible, reliable funding that meets your district’s needs. Building relationships early in the legislative session allows superintendents to voice concerns, suggest budget provisions and influence education policies that affect local communities.
- Align budgets with public sentiment. Voters have expressed a clear preference for transparency and investment in core educational services. Use budget development to highlight responsible spending, focus on effective programs and set measurable goals that resonate with community values.
- Strengthen community engagement and communication. Invite feedback through public forums, online surveys and advisory committees. Proactively sharing fiscal plans and being open to public input helps build trust, reducing the risk of backlash as districts face economic constraints.
- Collaborate with the board on fiscal policies. Partner with your board to establish clear policies on fiscal oversight, including third-party audits and transparent reporting. These policies safeguard public resources and reinforce accountability, preparing your district for a more scrupulous financial landscape.
Building a resilient education system through community engagement
Community engagement plays a vital role in shaping district success. Public opinion research reveals that families value districts that are transparent and proactive in addressing local needs. Districts should embrace this expectation, using tools like town halls, surveys and feedback forums to foster trust and responsiveness. Transparent engagement improves public perception and promotes sustained investment in education.
Navigating the future of education policy together
The 2024 election results underscore the need for a balanced approach to funding, governance and accountability in public education. For district leaders, the implications are clear: remain engaged with your communities, foster transparency in decision-making and align initiatives with public values.
The work of education leaders is increasingly complex but by embracing public expectations, districts can build a resilient, community-driven education system. Through continuous engagement, transparency and a commitment to local needs, superintendents can cultivate trust and demonstrate fiscal responsibility.
For additional insights or to discuss strategies, contact us at [email protected] or [email protected]. By working together, we can shape policies that build sustainable and impactful education for generations to come.
