The Iowa Senate is working to make funding in Iowa’s public schools more equal, regardless of transportation costs. The Senate approved Senate File 455, which will equalize the amount school districts receive per pupil over 10 years while making up for the differences in transportation costs. State Senator Kevin Kinney who supports the measure says, “Some schools are paying up to $1,000 per student just to get the student to the school, while other schools are paying $25 per student to get the student to school.” He said the goal is to equalize it, so the funds for education are equal across the state, regardless of transportation needs. Kinney says the money will come from the general fund.

According to Kinney, the breakdown for local districts after the 10 years equals about $507,000 for Washington School District, $502,000 for Mid-Prairie, and $279,000 for Highland. The legislation was sent to the House for consideration.