During a recent Buncombe County Schools Board of Education work session, officials discussed the potential shift to a weighted student funding formula, a significant change that could reshape how schools receive financial support in North Carolina. Currently, North Carolina is one of only nine states that do not utilize this model, which allocates funding based on the specific needs of students, including those who are economically disadvantaged or require special education services.

Dr. Jackson, along with other board members, highlighted the importance of this funding model, which has been gaining traction since a bill was introduced in 2023 to transition the state to a weighted system. This approach is already in use in 41 states and is designed to provide additional resources for students with greater needs. The discussion emphasized that for this model to be effective in North Carolina, there must be a substantial increase in overall funding for education.

The board noted successful implementations in states like Tennessee and Mississippi, which recently adopted similar funding formulas. Tennessee, for instance, increased its education budget by $1 billion to support its new system, while Mississippi faced challenges after rushing its implementation, indicating the need for careful planning and adequate funding.

Key stakeholders, including bipartisan representatives from the General Assembly and business leaders, are actively engaged in discussions about this potential shift. The board underscored the necessity of increasing the base funding alongside any changes to the funding formula to ensure that schools do not face financial setbacks.

As the conversation continues, the board remains committed to advocating for the necessary resources to support all students effectively, ensuring that any transition to a weighted funding model enhances educational opportunities across Buncombe County.