1. United States
2. Iowa
3. Letter

I am writing to you as an Iowa parent to share my concerns about SF 2201 and what it means for my child’s education. On paper, a 1.75% increase in school funding may sound reasonable. But when I look at inflation rates, it’s a significant decrease in funding. Considering what schools are actually facing — higher transportation costs, rising insurance premiums, utility increases, and staffing shortages — that number simply does not reflect reality. If school funding does not keep up with real expenses, districts are left with difficult choices that directly affect our children. As a parent, I worry about larger class sizes, fewer support staff, and reductions in programs that help students thrive. Whether it’s reading intervention, math support, updated curriculum, extracurricular opportunities, or classroom resources, these are not extras — they are essential parts of a well-rounded education. When funding falls short, families feel the impact immediately. I value responsible budgeting and understand the importance of careful state spending. But strong public schools are one of the most important investments we can make. They shape our workforce, our communities, and the opportunities available to the next generation. A funding level that does not keep pace with costs and inflation creates instability for districts and uncertainty for families. I respectfully urge you to reject SF 2201 in its current form and advocate for a funding level that truly meets the needs of Iowa students. Parents across the state are paying attention, and we want to see our schools positioned for long-term success. Thank you for your time and for considering the concerns of Iowa families.