Myth Busting: State Funding for Kansas Schools
August 19, 2025
Description
Join us Tuesday, August 19th, KSBRC hosted discussion about state funding for Kansas schools. According to the Kansas Department of Education, Kansans invest almost $19,000 per student in public education, and debates and assumptions about state school funding continue. Some argue that schools are underfunded, limiting students’ access to a high-quality education. Others contend that the system receives more than enough funding, citing concerns about inefficiency, waste, and mismanagement. These different perspectives highlight the need for greater transparency and understanding of how education dollars are allocated and used in Kansas. Representative Dr. Megan Steele, a member of the Education Funding Task Force as well as the Education and K-12 Education Budget Committees, will join us to provide an overview of the state funding allocation process. She will also address common misconceptions about how public education is funded in Kansas, offering valuable insight into the realities behind the numbers. Panelist: Dr. Megan D. Steele, Kansas Representative for District 51 serves on the Education Funding Task Force, Education, and K-12 Education Budget Committees. Dr. Steele brings a grassroots, education, and healthcare-focused perspective to the Kansas legislature. Her personal journey from young motherhood to earning a Ph.D. in Nursing and serving as an educator has taught her the importance of faith and grit. As a freshman lawmaker, she quickly established herself on key education committees and was promoted to the influential Education Funding Formula Task Force. Megan is deeply committed to family values, parental rights, government accountability, and she is especially passionate about restoring excellence in education. She believes that every child deserves the fundamental right to read. With a clear, principled voice, Megan is fighting for common-sense solutions that put children, families, and freedom first.