An examination of the fiscal adequacy and equity effects of class size mandates embedded in extensive statewide education reform.

Abstract

The simple regression analysis did not show evidence of inadequacy in state general aid funding over the years of implementation. In the multiple regression statistical procedure, the district valuation variable was introduced for this same period of time. The analysis of this data indicated that equity was not decreased in the distribution of state aid based on local district wealth. In fact, equity was enhanced for the less wealthy districts during the years of implementation.

Oklahoma's 1990 educational reform legislation, House Bill 1017, provided the context for the study. Specifically, the elementary class size requirements were the focus. Data from Oklahoma school districts during the years of implementation, FY 91-95, were used to determine the fiscal adequacy and equity of funding this specific reform requirement.

As a part of this study, school finance reform, school finance litigation, education reform, and Oklahoma's education reform legislation in 1990 were discussed. A detailed description of the Oklahoma school finance formula was provided.

Statistical procedures were utilized to describe the results of the study. Specifically, the study explored the inadequacy of state general aid funding as elementary class sizes became more restrictive and to determine if equity decreased in the distribution of state aid based on local district wealth during the years of implementation.