Investment and Funding Equity for Public Education

The Center for American Progress knows that money matters in education. Funding affects every aspect of a high-quality, well-rounded education, and there are both racial and socioeconomic disparities in investment and opportunities. States and districts are facing extreme inequities in funding, and at the same time, federal investment in education currently covers only about 8 percent of funding. We are fighting for a dramatic increase in investment and more equitable funding systems so that schools and students receive the resources they deserve.

One major CAP proposal in this priority area is Public Education Opportunity Grants. This federal grant program would significantly increase federal funding for K-12 education and target it to schools that need it the most.

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The Trump Administration’s Latest Staffing Cuts at the Department of Education Threaten Children’s Success Across the Country Article
A U.S. Department of Education employee leaves the building with their belongings.

The Trump Administration’s Latest Staffing Cuts at the Department of Education Threaten Children’s Success Across the Country

Cuts to staff at the Department of Education threaten the federal government’s long-term ability to ensure equal access to education for all, including children with disabilities.

Career and Technical Education in Pennsylvania Past Event
A student speaking to Randi Weingarten, Gov. Josh Shapiro and Mayor Cherelle Parker.

Career and Technical Education in Pennsylvania

The Center for American Progress, in collaboration with the American Federation of Teachers, hosted an event to highlight career and technical education programs in the Philadelphia region and discuss policy opportunities to expand these programs elsewhere.

The Trump Administration’s War on Disability Report
U.S. President Donald Trump signs an executive order.

The Trump Administration’s War on Disability

Executive actions, budget cuts, layoffs, and legislation—all enacted in the Trump administration’s first six months—have curtailed disability rights and services, including access to Medicaid and the right to free, appropriate public education.

The Top 5 Ways the Congressional Republicans’ Budget Reconciliation Bill Will Harm Disabled Students Report
Students are seen eating lunch.

The Top 5 Ways the Congressional Republicans’ Budget Reconciliation Bill Will Harm Disabled Students

Disabled students will be disproportionately hurt by the Republican budget reconciliation bill, losing access to essential services and resources that support their education and help them become contributing members of their communities.

Introducing a Framework for Private School Voucher Accountability Report
A teacher is seen in a classroom explaining something at the board while students sit at their desks and another teacher watches.

Introducing a Framework for Private School Voucher Accountability

As privatization efforts to redirect funding from public K-12 schools to private institutions continue to expand, an accountability framework for private voucher programs must be implemented to ensure positive student outcomes and thorough oversight of taxpayer dollars.

Weadé James, Tania Otero Martinez

The Importance of Holding Microschools Accountable Report
An aerial view of a living room with four children of different ages and their parents participating in homeschooling activities.

The Importance of Holding Microschools Accountable

As school choice expands and new models such as microschools emerge, policymakers and advocates must ensure that these options adhere to accountability standards and do not divert critical resources from a universally accessible, high-quality public education system.

Tania Otero Martinez, Paige Shoemaker DeMio

A Progressive Vision for Education in the 21st Century Report
A student in graduation robes walks across a stage where an American flag flies.

A Progressive Vision for Education in the 21st Century

This report encompasses key recommendations for strengthening the American education system across early childhood education, K-12 education, higher education, and workforce development.

Jared C. Bass

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Tackling Climate Change and Environmental Injustice
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Tackling Climate Change and Environmental Injustice

We pursue climate action that meets the crisis’s urgency, creates good-quality jobs, benefits disadvantaged communities, and restores U.S. credibility on the global stage.

Restoring Social Trust in Democracy
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Restoring Social Trust in Democracy

Democracy is under attack at home and abroad. We must act to ensure it is accessible to all, accountable, and can serve as a force of good.

Building an Economy for All
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Building an Economy for All

Economic growth must be built on the foundation of a strong and secure middle class so that all Americans benefit from growth.

Advancing Racial Equity and Justice
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Advancing Racial Equity and Justice

We apply a racial equity lens in developing and advancing policies that aim to root out entrenched systemic racism to ensure everyone has an opportunity to thrive.

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