Because of a late-year change in state aid—fueled by a change in the way schools are funded in Kansas—schools in at least seven districts will close earlier than scheduled this academic year.
A new financing law passed in March restored a $28 million automatic cut by the governor that had affected all districts. But it also slashed $51 million in equalization aid meant to close funding gaps between rich and poor districts that has largely benefited urban districts such as Kansas City and Wichita. The legislation reduced funding districts had expected this school year.
Closing school early is one way to save money and close the gap caused by the reduction. Some districts had more flexibility in their calendars because of a lack of snow days this past year.
