This afternoon, SB543 passed through the Senate. Sadly, 18 Senators did not listen to the concerns of Nevada educators.

Nevada’s school funding formula needs to be updated to reflect the changing needs of Nevada students. However, SB543 would have a harmful impact on most school districts, Zoom and Victory schools, and educator unions. SB543 proposes to change the school funding formula without adding new dollars except for administration costs. This only creates new winners and losers, rather than improving education for every student. Here is a list of concerns:

1. No new school funding to help make the plan work successfully.

2. A freeze and squeeze of most school districts.

3. Successful Zoom & Victory schools will be compromised.

4. A multi-million dollar giveaway to unaccountable charter schools.

5. Anti-Union end fund balance provisions (16.6%).

6. No educator voice on the commission on school funding.

7. A flawed legislative process that shut out important educator stakeholders.

All Nevada kids deserve better! SB543 now moves to the Assembly, and we have another chance to change this bill.

It is up to the Nevada State Assembly. Please write to the members of the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means and urge them to make all necessary changes to protect our educators, kids, and schools.