The Trump administration’s push to scale back the federal role in education could mean more autonomy for states. But this increased decision-making power will also make state K-12 accountability more important than ever. States must ensure education funding is used effectively, especially for those students furthest from opportunity. 

While some states have comprehensive and clear fiscal accountability systems in place, most do not. State leaders need stronger tools and clearer guidance on how to craft and implement accountability policies and practices. 

Beyond the Bottom Line: A New Framework for K-12 Fiscal Accountability identifies a framework for promoting K-12 accountability at the state level. The framework includes four components (shown below). 

Developed through conversations with state policymakers and advocates, this framework provides flexible solutions that can be tailored to each state’s unique K–12 funding needs, capacity, and goals. The framework enables state leaders to align funding with educational goals, supports district and school leaders in effective resource use, and reassures families and the public that education dollars are invested wisely to advance student outcomes.