As part of his plan for improving education, Governor Perdue is pushing a proposal that will require 65 percent of all education dollars be spent directly in the classroom. “It is only common sense that we should spend our education dollars where they can do the most good and have the biggest direct impact on student achievement,” said Governor Perdue. “My education budget has a strong classroom focus because the classroom is where learning happens.”

The bill would allow spending on teachers, textbooks, computers, and teacher aides. If a school is already performing at average or above average levels, then the 65 percent rule wouldn’t apply to them.

The Governor’s plan is based on national research that shows significantly higher test scores in public school systems that spend at least 65 percent of their educational budgets in the classroom.

House members passed the bill 102-70 Thursday afternoon.