Kentucky faces $40 million school funding shortfall amid legal challenges

Kentucky is facing a projected $40 million shortfall in funding for its public schools, with Education Commissioner Robbie Fletcher highlighting a $12 million gap in the SEEK (Support Education Excellence in Kentucky) funding formula for the current academic year. The SEEK program, which allocates state funds to the state's 171 school districts based on various factors including student demographics and transportation needs, has experienced shortfalls in previous fiscal years. This funding crisis is compounded by a student-led lawsuit aimed at addressing disparities in educational resources, which argues that the state is failing to meet its constitutional obligation for equitable education. As the legislature prepares to reconvene, officials are exploring options to mitigate the impact of the shortfall on public schools. The situation underscores ongoing concerns about the adequacy of funding for poorer and rural districts in Kentucky. Education officials are collaborating with legislative leaders to seek solutions before the upcoming budget discussions.