Michael Rebell, Teachers College professor of law and educational practice and executive director of Campaign for Educational Equity, has published a new supplement updating his 2009 book, Courts and Kids: Pursuing Educational Equity through the State Courts. The Supplement looks at the 27 school-funding-adequacy decisions issued by state courts since the 2008 recession.

Rebell found that in recent years, in new cases, the courts have been less likely to rule in favor of the plaintiffs. However, courts have consistently enforced compliance with constitutional requirements established in previous cases. There have been 13 court decisions so far that have challenged post-recession reductions in state-funding as violating students' educational rights established in previous court rulings, and plaintiffs have won every one of these decisions.

Reflecting on these trends, Rebell concludes that although courts must take economic and political realities into account, this reconsideration should not, and need not, limit or neglect the constitutional rights of millions of scool children. During difficult economic times particularly, a firm judicial stance is needed to protect these rights. Foe the supplement, click here.

Published Thursday, Apr. 23, 2015