Policy

School spending soars to record highs

New data released by the U.S. Census Bureau found governments at all levels spent a combined $810 billion on elementary and secondary education in 2021.
First grade students, Emma Benn, left, and Tayanna Yellardy, center, and Connor Matthews, do their work during classes at Chimborazo Elementary School Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022, in Richmond, Va. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

States spent more money than ever on public schools in 2021 as local governments adapted to virtual learning and Congress allocated billions in emergency pandemic spending.

New data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows governments at all levels spent a combined $810 billion on elementary and secondary education that year, the tenth straight fiscal year in which school spending has increased.

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