Oregon lawmakers would explain whether school funding meets education goals

Oregon lawmakers would publish a report showing whether public education funding meets state goals or explaining any shortfall. The report would cover money lawmakers set aside during each odd-year regular session for the two-year education budget beginning that July 1. The goals cover districts following laws and standards, licensed or registered teachers qualified for their classes, and statewide performance targets. For the report published after November 1, 2027, state officials would adjust costs from the November 19, 2025, report for inflation and other costs. The reporting rules would apply to reports prepared on or after November 1, 2029. Reports would be due within 180 days after the odd-year regular session ends.

The Legislative Policy and Research Director would hire a public or private organization to estimate the resources and costs needed to meet Oregon’s education goals. Estimates would cover Oregon schools and specialized education programs. The Department of Education would publish details about the resources assumed for example schools and districts. The director would not have to sign a contract unless lawmakers provide money for it. The model would consider research, practicing educators’ views, district differences, and which resources to prioritize when money is limited. The Oregon Department of Administrative Services would update costs between models for inflation and other costs. Funded contracts would be required at least every eight years, with each contract signed at least 18 months before the model’s completion deadline. The first contracting process would begin within one week of enactment, aiming to finish the model by February 1, 2028. Later models would be due February 1 of the year before a report. Cost updates would be due June 1 of the year before a report, starting no later than June 1, 2030.

School districts would face reviews and complaint procedures covering compliance with state and federal laws and state education standards. The framework would cover Oregon school districts and regional education service districts. School district complaint decisions could be appealed to the state superintendent. School districts would be presumed to meet standards unless the state superintendent finds a violation. School districts would have to submit an acceptable correction plan within 90 days. Missing the plan deadline could stop further state school funding, with deadline extensions allowed for disasters. Unresolved violations could lead to withheld operating money by the next school year, unless withholding would cause undue hardship. Extensions could last up to 12 months, but not when a merger could achieve compliance. Regional education service districts would have 180 days after acceptance of a correction plan to comply before possible penalties. These district compliance provisions would apply beginning July 1, 2026, if enacted.