A recent report released by the Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy, a free market think tank, revealed that the cost of public education in New Hampshire has increased by $1 billion over the past 20 years. This increase occurred even as school enrollment decreased by 30,000 students. The report also noted that when adjusted for inflation, state spending on public education has actually decreased over time. Consequently, local communities have had to shoulder the burden of the overall increase in costs.
Education policy experts in New Hampshire criticized the report's findings and argued that spending increases were necessary to address specific needs within schools. "The rise in expenses can be attributed to meeting the needs of our diverse student population," explained Dr. Jane Thompson, an education policy analyst based in Concord.
According to these experts, additional resources have been allocated toward supporting low-income families and students with special needs. These investments are seen as essential to ensuring equitable access to quality educational opportunities throughout New Hampshire.
"Over time we've noticed that there is a growing number of students requiring specialized services," said Elizabeth Johnson, superintendent of Nashua School District. "We must prioritize providing assistance where it is needed most."
While some critics argue against increased spending without tangible results or improvements in test scores statewide testing shows otherwise - according to this same study from Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy: In fact; National Assessment Of Educational Progress (NAEP) Reading And Math Scores For Students Across NH Fell By Four Points During Same Period As Cost Increases Were Observed Within Report Findings