Federal education spending per student far exceeds that of other wealthy nations, yet student performance in reading and math remains stagnant or declines, according to a new analysis. Critics argue the high costs—driven by bloated administrative bloat, excessive teacher protections, and outdated funding formulas—fail to translate into measurable academic gains. The report highlights persistent achievement gaps and questions whether current spending models are sustainable or effective. Reform advocates push for targeted investments in classroom instruction over bureaucratic overhead, framing the debate as one of efficiency versus equity in public education funding.
America spends too much on K-12 schools | Erika Sanzi STLtoday.com