April 25, 2024

Schools Could Close If Legislature Can’t Find Funding Solution

(westernkansasnews.com) The legislature still faces the looming deadline of June 30th to find a equitable solution in funding education or have the State Supreme Court close schools. State Representative John Doll of Garden City has a certain level of fear it may come to this.

 

The hope is motivated by running for re-election that legislatures will come up with a plan to satisfy the court criteria.

In wrapping up their session Senate and House leaders are nit expected to tackle the school funding issue until next week.

School districts from around the state are making contingency plans just in case the education funding battle between the legislature and state supreme court extends beyond July 1st. Public Information Coordinator at USD 457 in Garden City Roy Cessna says the calendar for now remains flexible.

Cessna says everyone will be informed as to what they are doing. Closing the schools also puts Dodge City in a bind.

In the middle of this legal battle is USD 443 Superintendent Cunningham. Dodge City schools are one of four plaintiffs that has been there from the beginning despite some of the legal costs they have incurred.

Cunningham believes the pricetag is not too high for kids in his district and across the state to receive the quality education they deserve. No indication on how the legislature will attempt to solve this latest round in the education funding battle.

*On-air story*