As state legislative sessions near their end, the main focus has been on public and charter school funding along with mobile phone regulations, marking one of the year’s biggest policy debates.
While federal changes in education policy, especially regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), have captured attention, state lawmakers are actively pursuing their own reforms. These include adjusting enrollment processes for immigrant students and increasing funds for school choice.
From Texas to Colorado and New York, various school-related issues are being tackled, though not all have reached a resolution.
Policies passed through this legislative session
Texas garnered significant national attention for its new school selection program, which is the largest of its kind in the U.S. The program allocated $1 billion in its first year and offers scholarships for students to pursue private or homeschooling options.
The governor stated, “I am signing this law to ensure that children are no longer confined to their assigned public schools.”
Other states like Indiana and Wyoming are following suit by expanding school selection options, while Tennessee and Idaho are establishing new schools.
In line with the previous administration’s policies, states including Indiana, Iowa, and Ohio have enacted laws limiting DEI programs for both K-12 and higher education.
One proponent noted, “Our aim is to ensure students can express their perspectives freely, both in classrooms and on campuses,” emphasizing its role in higher education.
A growing issue this year has been the ban on mobile phones. Lawmakers want schools to limit students’ screen time on personal devices.
At least 11 states introduced restrictions on mobile phone usage in schools during the recent legislative session, including New York, Oklahoma, Georgia, Alabama, Missouri, Virginia, Arkansas, New Mexico, Arizona, and North Dakota.
Concerns surrounding federal funding under the current presidency have prompted some states to boost public school funding. In Alaska, lawmakers reversed a governor’s veto, allowing charter schools and increasing basic student funding allocations by $700. Overall, this legislation adds $180 million to the state’s education budget.
In Colorado, lawmakers allocated over $10 billion for public schools for the upcoming academic year, although it fell short of what schools had anticipated.
Failed or later surfaced measures
Tennessee faced significant backlash for a failed proposal that would require proof of citizenship for public school enrollment.
This bill emerged as undocumented students expressed fears following comments from the former president about Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in schools, though no incidents have been reported.
Osiris Pizen Magana, an immigrant and educator, criticized the bill, stating, “It would prevent many children from accessing the education they deserve and betray the values of our state and nation. Every child deserves equal opportunities.”
While some states have successfully passed anti-DEI measures, others have struggled. Colorado’s attempt to ban universities from mandating DEI-related courses did not progress.
In Georgia, a proposal was introduced that would restrict funding to institutions with DEI programs. Democrat Senator Sonya Halpern expressed her opposition, saying, “This bill isn’t about fairness; it feeds into fear.” She argued it stifles honest dialogue and undermines opportunities.
South Dakota had a busy legislative session with about a quarter of its proposed 400 bills focusing on education. The state, however, couldn’t move forward with initiatives regarding partisan school board elections or school selection programs.
Reportedly, one critic stated, “Public education funding ought to reflect a shared responsibility. Instead, funding is diverted from public and tribal schools, leaving students with fewer resources.” This sentiment highlights concerns that such measures do not enhance education but weaken it.
