Education Funding Commission approves hybrid model for school funding

The Funding Commission’s vote comes after meeting for about year to evaluate how the state’s public schools are funded. (Photo by Photobuay/iStock Getty Images)

In a significant move toward reforming how public schools are funded in Delaware, the state’s Public Education Funding Commission voted Monday evening to adopt a hybrid funding framework, combining elements of the current unit-count system with a weighted block grant model.

The decision comes after months of deliberation involving educators, parent advocates, legislators, and community leaders.

The Commission, which was first formed in 2024 by the General Assembly, has spent the past year reviewing Delaware’s education funding system and exploring alternatives aimed at improving equity, transparency, and student outcomes.

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“This decision marks a meaningful step forward in the effort to ensure Delaware’s public education system is more equitable, transparent, and responsive to the needs of all students,” said Julia Keleher, executive director of First State Educate. “We are encouraged that the Commission will continue to explore models that prioritize flexibility and equity, which are key values for building a funding system that works for every community.”

The newly approved hybrid model is designed to allocate additional funding to students with greater needs, including those from low-income families, English learners, and students with disabilities.

It also includes dedicated funding for educator positions based on student demographics and statewide salary guidelines.

Funding Commission’s decision

In addition to endorsing the hybrid model, the Commission voted on four other key provisions:

Implementation Plan: A three- to five-year transition plan will be developed, ensuring that no local education agency (LEA) sees a reduction in funding during the phase-in.
Local Wealth Considerations: The group will continue studying how to adjust for local revenue disparities, with an eye on reforms to equalization and state-local funding shares.
Ongoing Oversight: A permanent advisory body composed of parents, educators, and community leaders will be established to review the funding system regularly.
Community Engagement: A statewide outreach campaign, including town halls and focus groups, will gather public input. At least one event will be held in each county, with data shared transparently to illustrate the impact of proposed changes.

“The hybrid model that was adopted by the funding commission and the direction given by the approved recommendations will lead to greater flexibility and improved outcomes when it comes to utilizing existing funds in the educational budget,” said Sen. Eric Buckson, R-Dover, who is a member of the Senate Education Committee.

These recommendations will inform the next phase of modeling and analysis, which will evaluate how the changes could affect individual schools and districts across the state.

The Commission, which continues under the 153rd General Assembly, is expected to serve as a long-term advisory body to ensure Delaware’s education funding system evolves to meet the needs of all students.

“While reform is on the horizon, Delawareans must remain engaged in this transition time,” Keleher said. “Until a new formula is fully enacted and funded, local referenda remain an essential tool for ensuring that students continue to receive the high-quality education they deserve. We encourage continued progress on local funding mechanisms so that districts are not forced to rely on referenda just to cover operating expenses.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.