More money for Alabama students is a no-brainer, y'all.

Alabama consistently ranks near the bottom in educational outcomes, leaving many students unprepared for college and careers. Poor academic outcomes limit opportunities for our students, our communities, and our workforce. These challenges are even more acute for students with greater needs, like students who live in poverty, have disabilities, or are English learners. The time has come to address the root cause of Alabama's overall state of education: school funding.

Currently, Alabama ranks 39th in per-pupil funding, spending $4,009 below the national average. Our state is one of only six that funds schools based solely on student headcount rather than individual needs. Shockingly, just 1.1% of the K-12 budget is allocated to students with the greatest needs, including those in poverty, with disabilities, or English learners. Research shows that an additional $1,000 invested in students through school finance reform efforts has the same effect on student outcomes as 72 additional days of learning. Increased funding also increases test scores, graduation rates, college-going rates, and adult wages.

The Alabama Legislature has already recognized the need for reform and established the Joint Legislative Study Commission on Modernizing K-12 School Education Funding. Over five meetings, the commission explored pathways to modernize our outdated system. As the commission finalizes its recommendations, we must encourage legislators to take decisive action and make modernizing school funding a top priority. Our students cannot afford inaction.