Georgia School Funding Concepts

The video explains how Georgia funds its public schools through the Quality Basic Education Act (QBE), a law established in 1985. It details the QBE formula, which calculates funding based on student numbers and program weights, covering direct and indirect costs. The video also discusses local fair share, categorical grants, and equalization grants, which ensure equitable funding across districts. The QBE formula, despite being decades old, still dictates the distribution of billions of dollars in school funding.

What is the primary purpose of the Quality Basic Education Act (QBE) in Georgia?

• To oversee school construction

• To regulate teacher salaries

• To fund public schools

• To manage school curriculums

Which year was the Quality Basic Education Act (QBE) passed?

• 1985

• 1990

• 1995

• 1980

How does QBE determine the number of teachers needed in schools?

• By the number of school districts

• By the number of full-time equivalent students (FTEs)

• By the number of classrooms

• By the number of school buildings

What is the base dollar amount per student set by Georgia's General Assembly in 2019?

• $2,800

• $2,620.77

• $2,700

• $2,500

What is included in the indirect costs for schools?

• Student textbooks

• Sports equipment

• Library maintenance

• Teacher salaries

Which of the following is NOT considered an indirect cost?

• Teacher salaries

• Principal salaries

• Library expenses

• School maintenance

What is the 'local fair share' in the context of Georgia's school funding?

• A local tax requirement for school funding

• A federal education program

• A state grant for schools

• A school fundraising initiative

What is the '5 mill share' in Georgia's school funding?

• A federal grant

• A state funding formula

• A school fundraising event

• A local tax rate

What is the purpose of equalization grants in Georgia's school funding?

• To provide scholarships for students

• To fund extracurricular activities

• To support schools with lower property tax revenue

• To reward high-performing schools

Which service is funded through categorical grants?

• Student meals

• School bus transportation

• Sports programs

• Teacher training