Edmonds Parents Fundraise $222,000 to Save Music Programs Amidst Washington State's $20,748 Per-Student Spending

EDMONDS, WA – Parents and community members in the Edmonds School District successfully raised $222,000 to preserve music programs at several middle and high schools, highlighting a significant disparity in local funding despite Washington State's average per-student expenditure of $20,748. The fundraising effort, led by the Foundation for Edmonds School District, aimed to cover the costs of 1.2 full-time equivalent (FTE) teaching positions that were unfunded in the district's budget.

The initiative emerged as the Edmonds School District faced a budget shortfall, necessitating cuts of $7 to $10 million for the upcoming school year. Deb Brandi from the Foundation for Edmonds School District confirmed that the district's approved budget did not include funding for these music classes. She explained, "These additional funds would be a budget amendment to increase their budget by this dollar amount to allow for these classes to be funded." Approximately 300 students will now benefit from the continuation of orchestra and jazz band programs.

The situation has drawn public scrutiny regarding the allocation of education funds. As noted by the social media account "Future 42," "WA State spends an eye-watering $20,748 per student, yet Edmonds School District parents had to fundraise nearly a quarter MILLION dollars to keep their music program. Why are voters okay with this? Where is the accountability?" This sentiment underscores a broader debate about the effectiveness and transparency of education spending in the state.

Washington State ranks 11th nationally in per-pupil spending, with its $20,748 average placing it significantly above the national average of $17,277. Despite this high level of investment, concerns about academic outcomes persist. Reports indicate that student performance on national tests has declined over the last decade, with a significant percentage of students not meeting grade-level standards in math and English language arts.

The discrepancy between high per-pupil spending and local program cuts raises questions about how state funds are distributed and prioritized at the district level. While state funding is a primary source for K-12 education, local enrichment levies and community fundraising often become crucial for programs not deemed "basic education," leading to varied educational experiences across districts. The Foundation for Edmonds School District is now evaluating whether it can extend its fundraising efforts to save additional classes, including choir programs.