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On Tuesday, voters across the United States will have the opportunity to weigh in on a record number of education-related ballot measures, according to Michelle Exstrom, director of the education program at the National Conference of State Legislatures. The issues at hand primarily revolve around funding for K-12 schools and community colleges, as well as initiatives related to school choice. However, there seems to be a growing challenge in passing revenue-raising measures in some states and school districts, as evidenced by recent rejections of bond measures in California and difficulties in passing local bond measures in Michigan since 2020.

One of the key concerns for legislatures is the impact of declining revenue measures on education funding, particularly in the areas of capital improvements and maintenance of facilities. As local districts and states struggle to generate funding through revenue measures, the risk of falling behind in crucial areas such as infrastructure repairs and improvements becomes more pronounced. With education funding largely dependent on local sources, the inability to pass revenue measures poses a significant challenge for school districts seeking to maintain and improve their facilities.

School choice remains a contentious issue in several states, with Colorado, Nebraska, and Missouri presenting ballot measures that could solidify existing school choice programs or pave the way for new initiatives. In Colorado, advocates are pushing for the addition of language to the state constitution that would affirm students’ right to school choice, potentially opening the door to voucher programs and tax credits for private schools. Nebraska voters will decide on the future of an existing voucher program, while Missouri voters will consider the licensing of a gambling boat to support early childhood literacy programs.

While education has not been a focal point of the current election cycle, former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have weighed in on related topics during their campaigns. However, education funding and policy primarily fall under state jurisdiction, with 14 states presenting education-related ballot questions covering a range of issues such as lottery-funded scholarships, school board elections, graduation assessments, and college governance. Voters will have the opportunity to shape the future of education in their states through these ballot initiatives.

Among the various education-related ballot questions up for consideration, some notable measures include the proposition in California for an additional $10 billion in bonds to improve education facilities, a proposal in Colorado to establish a constitutional right to school choice, and a potential change in Florida to make school board elections partisan. Additionally, voters in Massachusetts will decide on repealing a high school graduation assessment, while Kentucky seeks to allow state funding for non-public education. These measures highlight the diverse range of education-related issues facing states across the country.

As voters head to the polls on Tuesday, they will have the opportunity to shape the future of education in their states through these ballot measures. Whether it is funding for school infrastructure, initiatives related to school choice, or changes to education governance, the decisions made by voters will have a lasting impact on the education system. With education funding and policy largely determined at the state level, these ballot measures serve as a crucial opportunity for citizens to voice their support for the education priorities that matter most to them.

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