News Headlines

Testimony To End In School Funding Lawsuit

Reporter: Associated Press

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Testimony is close to wrapping up in a trial over whether Kansas spends enough money on public schools or distributes the dollars fairly.

Attorneys expect to finish questioning witnesses Thursday in Shawnee County District Court, where the trial began June 4. The last witness was expected to be state Education Commissioner Diane DeBacker.

Three judges are hearing the lawsuit, filed against the state by the Dodge City, Hutchinson, Kansas City and Wichita school districts and 31 students in those districts.

They argue that cuts in general aid to schools in recent years are keeping the state from providing a suitable education for every child. The state contends it did the best it could while facing budget problems.