This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The following data supplement a recent editorial that addressed Utah's inadequate education ("Slippery slope: Nothing to stop slide of education," Our View, March 15).
According to the most recent census, Utah's $6,064 education expenditure per student is the lowest, just 57 percent of the U.S. average. Thirty-nine states spend at least 50 percent more than Utah.
Idaho, with the second-lowest per-pupil expenditure, spends 11.7 percent more than Utah. The census also reported that from 2009 to 2010, overall U.S. education funding increased 1.1 percent; Utah's decreased 4.6 percent, a change that exceeded 48 states.
Our fertility rate is the highest, 26 percent more than the U.S. average. Since Utah parents can deduct $2,850 for each dependent, large families excessively impact education funds.
Our teacher/pupil ratio is the highest, 44 percent above average, and at least 25 percent more than 39 states. KTVX-Ch. 4 reported that in 2011, 69 percent of Utah parents said they would pay more taxes in order to have their children in smaller classes.
We have a problem, which, if not resolved, will continue to rob our children. Utah legislators: If you can't lead, at least try to follow us.
Frank Cameron
Highland