Oregon Gov. Kotek Signs Four Bills Boosting Rural School Funding, Literacy

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek ceremonially signed four key education bills at Prairie Mountain K-8 School in Eugene, underscoring a historic $11.4 billion investment in the state's K-12 system aimed at improving public education and student outcomes. The legislation includes Senate Bill 141, which requires schools to measure additional student outcomes and set performance goals with state support for schools that do not meet targets, and House Bill 2140, designed to provide more predictable and equitable school funding by adjusting the State School Fund distribution. Other bills focus on reducing administrative burdens and establishing minimum grant amounts to support districts, reflecting a collaborative effort among educators, lawmakers, and community members to strengthen accountability and financial stability in Oregon's schools. Governor Kotek emphasized unity and the promise of Oregon students, highlighting the administration's commitment to giving youth the resources they need amid social divisions. The event drew bipartisan attendance, including speeches from state legislative leaders and local education officials, reinforcing the broad support for these progressive education measures. This legislative package builds on earlier efforts and funding initiatives aimed at enhancing teacher preparation, literacy, and summer learning programs across the state.