What does this measure?
Total spending by school districts in a county, divided by total pupils.
Why is this important?
High spending for schools can mean that better facilities, programs and a greater range of opportunities are available to students. It may also signal public support for education and a more experienced teaching workforce. However, studies have found higher spending does not necessarily lead to higher student achievement, given the many factors that contribute to student success, including parental and community influences.
How is the region performing?
In 2015, school districts in the Mid-Hudson Valley region spent $22,600 per student, about $100 more than the state (excluding NYC) figure. School spending per student has grown considerably, increasing 56% across the region since 2000, even after adjusting for inflation. Spending in Ulster County school districts was the highest, about $24,400 per student, followed by Dutchess at $22,300 and Orange at $22,000.
Throughout the region, school districts with the highest per-pupil spending were Kiryas Joel ($77,400) and Tuxedo ($31,200) in Orange County; Pine Plains ($30,200) and Millbrook ($28,900) in Dutchess; Onteora ($35,500) in Ulster. The lowest spending districts were Goshen ($19,400), Cornwall and Pine Bush (both at $19,800) in Orange County; Wappingers ($18,200) in Dutchess; and Wallkill and Saugerties (both $21,100) in Ulster.
Notes about the data
Figures have been adjusted to 2015 dollars. Data for this indicator are expected to be released in the second quarter.