Allowable Growth for PK-12 Education

During the 2012 legislative session, the legislature failed to set the 2013-14 allowable growth for Iowa school districts.  By law, the allowable growth must be set within 30 days of the governor's budget submission to the legislature.   It is essential that the allowable growth decision that should have been established during last year's session get decided upon as soon as possible.  By law, school districts must certify budgets by April 15th.  It is imperative that Districts know the allowable growth rate prior to finalizing the budgetary process.

There are several reasons to complete this work now:

• Iowa's revenue picture is improving and the legislature should consider the growing economy and the historically low funding of school districts over the last five years.

• The legislature should provide an allowable growth rate that will allow schools to dedicate resources to improving student achievement, implementing and assessing the Iowa Core and preparing Iowa's students for the 21st century.

• Improving student achievement is not just about changing policy. It is about providing the necessary resources to strengthen the education system.  Recent across the board cuts, low to no allowable growth rates, and an increase in expectations have left school districts with little capacity to fund new and innovative programs. 

Please consider contacting your local representative in support of 4% allowable growth for Iowa schools!