Alabama second in nation in school district secessions, report says (al.com)

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By Trisha Powell Crain

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Alabama has seen a steady secession, or breakaway, of city school districts from county districts in recent years, due in large part to incentives inherent in state school funding, according to a new report from EdBuild, a national nonprofit organization which advocates for equitable school funding.

Those fractures have real consequences for those they leave behind, according to the report. Consequences include widening the resource gap among school districts, creating costly inefficiencies, and creating socioeconomic and racial disparities.

"Fractured: The Breakdown of America's School Districts," released Wednesday, highlights how 10 new Alabama school districts have formed statewide since 2000, including Gardendale's elongated breakaway from Jefferson County.

Only 47 new school districts have been formed nationwide during that same time period.

EdBuild's founder and CEO Rebecca Sibilia is quick to say this report isn't condemning communities for wanting the best for their children.
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