Last week, Senate Republicans released a funding proposal for the next school year, proposing a $235 million increase for K-12 students. The increase in state funding is in addition to the budget passed last year, meaning state aid for schools coming from the state budget is $4.2 million. It is also the same amount proposed by Gov. Kim Reynolds.

Senate Study Bill 1053 continues our dedication to responsible budgeting and our commitment to Iowa students. It provides money for students going to public schools, students utilizing education savings accounts and students attending charter schools. It also funds the teacher pay increase passed in the 2024 session.

When you look at the state budget, it is clear education is a priority. With state funding alone, we are spending $7,983 per student in Iowa. Including both state and local funding, K-12 students in Iowa receive over $6 billion.

After all funding sources are considered, such as property taxes, state aid, federal dollars and other sources, public schools in Iowa will receive an estimated $18,722 per student next school year.

The proposed increase in funding continues our conservative budgeting practices and does so in a timely matter so schools across the state can start planning their budgets.

We started last week with the Rally for Life. Iowa’s pro-life advocates rallied at the state Capitol, highlighting the achievements over the last several years to protect and defend the right to life in the state of Iowa. Our state and our nation have fought tremendous battles over the years to further prevent the tragedy of abortion and ensure the protection of life for those who are unable to protect themselves. The legislature proudly passed a ban on abortion once a heartbeat could be heard. We have also passed a number of policies to help pregnant women, support families and expand adoption and foster care options.

Last week was also National School Choice Week across the country, giving us the opportunity to celebrate our achievements in education and expanding school choice in our state.

In Iowa, we were proud to give all parents the ability to choose the best path for their children to pursue academic excellence. Since passing the Students First Act, we have seen overwhelming support for this program and the families who want to utilize it for their children. School choice improves academic outcomes and the quality of education and gives all Iowa families the option to choose the educational setting that works best for their child.

State Sen. Tim Kraayenbrink, R-Fort Dodge, represents Calhoun, Pocahontas, Sac and Webster counties.