What is one primary source of funding for public schools in the United States?

Local property taxes are a primary source of funding for public schools in the United States because they make up a significant portion of the revenue that school districts receive. School funding often heavily relies on these taxes because they are assessed on real estate within the district. This system allows school districts to generate funds directly based on the wealth and property value in their areas, creating a significant correlation between local economic conditions and school financing.

In most districts, local property taxes provide the largest share of funding compared to other sources. This reliance can lead to disparities in funding between wealthier and less wealthy areas, as property-rich districts can afford to allocate more resources to their schools, while districts with lower property values may struggle to meet funding needs. Understanding this source is crucial in addressing educational equity and resource allocation in public schools across the country.