Senate passes 2% increase in K-12 spending

DES MOINES — Senate Republicans have approved a bill that would provide a 2% increase in the state’s per pupil spending on Iowa’s Kindergarten-through-12 public and private schools.

It would amount to about $8000 per pupil in public schools and the same amount for parents who have signed up for an Educational Savings Account to cover private school expenses for their child.

Senate Democrats had proposed a 5% increase in spending. Three Republicans who represent mainly rural school districts joined Democrats in opposing the bill.

House Republicans have proposed a higher state spending level for K-12 education, including a one-time $22.6 million infusion to help schools deal with inflation.