At first glance, the more funding that is put into the K-12 system, the better the output of scores. In the great state of Nevada (and others), experience shows that more money doesn’t always translate to higher student achievement. “More money, better results” is a myth, and more often than not, it’s “mo’ money, mo’ problems” because increased education spending doesn’t automatically lead to better results. And that money could be used in more productive ways for the state.
We don’t need to throw more money at the problem. We need reforms focusing on efficiency and accountability – the real solution.
Funded, Yet Still Unprepared
In 2019, Nevada spent close to $10,000 per pupil. In 2021, that number rose to almost $12,500 per pupil. Nevada has increased its per-pupil funding by $2500 per pupil for fiscal year 2025 as a result of a $12 billion education funding bill that passed in 2023.
Despite these increases, Nevada was ranked 48th in the nation for public school overall ranking in 2024. At the same time, Nevada’s student success ranking was 45th. Our state continues to be in the bottom fifth of education. Student performance on key indicators like college readiness has declined despite increased per-pupil funding.
Spending Does Not Equal Achievement
Studies show that education spending levels don’t correlate with achievement, as states that spend less than Nevada often outperform it. For instance, according to the U.S. Department of Education, Alabama, Arizona, Idaho, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Utah all spent less per pupil in FY21 than did Nevada. Half of those states outperformed Nevada on the NAEP 8th-grade reading test, and a majority outperformed Nevada in math.
The real problem facing Nevada’s public schools stems from a lack of accountability, not insufficient funding.
One way to promote accountability would be to restore and expand Nevada’s Opportunity Scholarship Program. The program is supported by almost 70 percent of Nevadans and was helping more than 2,000 low-income, mostly minority children before Democrats decided to gut it.
But more reforms are needed.
Reforms That Focus on Results
Recognizing that reforms are needed is a good jumping-off point. But the types of reforms are whats really important. Nevada must implement education reforms that focus on results. Reforms such as teacher evaluations based on student performance. Right now, the Nevada State Education Association opposes including any measure of student learning in teacher evaluations. If little Johnny can’t read, there needs to be some mechanism to hold educators feet to the fire.
Another reform focused on results would be expanding school choice. These programs and policies let Nevada families use public money to access schools beyond their local public school option. Underperforming schools would see an exodus of students, unless they do something to improve academics.
You Can Make a Difference
Want to make a difference in the lives of other Nevadans? Visit Nevada Policy’s Action Center and join other Nevadans voicing their concerns to elected officials. Your voice CAN make a difference. Voice your support for reforms that prioritize accountability and student success, and join us in rethinking the idea that more money equals better results.
Download Nevada Policy’s updated report, 30 Ways to Save Money with Spending More
