#United States #Auburn University #Auburn #Brittany Larkin #Andrew Pendola

Reshaping Education Funding: Auburn University's Groundbreaking Work

Auburn University has become a beacon of hope for educational reform in Alabama, spearheaded by Andrew Pendola, an associate professor in the College of Education. His recent research into a new state school funding formula, the RAISE Act (Renewing Alabama's Investment in Student Excellence), continues the legacy of his late colleague, Dr. Brittany Larkin, who initiated discussions around this topic nearly a decade ago. Pendola's work not only aims to improve educational outcomes for students but also adheres to the foundational principles laid out by Larkin prior to her untimely passing in 2017.

A Journey Rooted in Legacy

At the inception of his research, Pendola was unaware of the profound connection between his work and Larkin's foundational contributions to educational policy. "I didn't realize it at the time, but I was using Dr. Larkin's work while researching the topic, and I couldn't believe how spot on it was," Pendola reflected. This connection came to light once Pendola began teaching the courses Larkin previously covered, igniting a sense of purpose. The RAISE Act, now signed into law, integrates weighted student funding, reallocating funds based on the unique challenges students face, including poverty, disabilities, and language barriers.

Revisiting the Roots: The Need for Change

Acknowledging the long-standing nature of this reform, Pendola emphasized the importance of Larkin's contributions saying, "This has been a long time coming. Dr. Larkin began writing about this nearly a decade ago for Alabama." The RAISE Act not only marks Alabama as the 46th state to adopt such a model but also establishes a framework designed to address the diverse needs of its K-12 students. This comes as states across the nation increasingly implement similar reforms.

Navigating Through Data and Evidence

Pendola's commitment to ensuring the successful passage of the RAISE Act stemmed from his proactive engagement with state legislators, policy researchers, and advocacy organizations. He utilized evidence-based insights to craft informative briefs, enabling lawmakers to see how targeted funding could improve educational quality and subsequently bolster local economies. "I figured the best thing I could do to support all the excellent advocates was to act as a trustworthy source of information," Pendola explained. Through meticulous research and presentations, he highlighted how equitable education access ultimately contributes to broader economic development.

The Backbone of Reform: Collaboration and Research

Integral to Pendola's success has been the Plains Research Consortium, established within the College of Education. This non-partisan consortium serves as a leading voice in educational policy and is dedicated to providing insights grounded in sound research. Pendola noted, "Working with the Plains Consortium helped to guarantee our research is transparent, nonpartisan, and evidence-based." This framework instills confidence in policymakers, ensuring that the recommendations are impartial and rooted in strong evidence.

A Lasting Legacy: Inspiring Future Generations

Indeed, the legacy of Brittany Larkin is palpable in the work being done today. Her sister, Brandi King, expressed gratitude for Pendola's efforts to advance her sister's foundational work. According to King, Larkin's lifelong dedication to education was sparked by her desire to serve students often overlooked by the system. "Britt wanted to change the system, not just one classroom," King shared. She pursued her doctorate in educational leadership and policy with the aim to influence educational finance and reform outdated funding laws. King’s reflections on her sister’s character underline a deep-seated belief in potential: “She challenged us to see beyond the surface.”

Looking Forward: A Brighter Educational Future

As Pendola reflects on the journey of bringing the RAISE Act to fruition, he remains hopeful about its impact on Alabama's educational landscape. "If this research has, in any way, contributed to better education for kids, then the job has been done," he stated. Furthermore, Pendola acknowledges that the endeavor does not merely rest on his shoulders alone. It signifies a collaborative achievement that honors Larkin’s enduring influence within Alabama’s educational policy landscape. With the passage of the RAISE Act, a message resonates: expansive, equitable educational opportunities should not just be a goal but a reality for every student.

Close to his heart, Pendola points to the wooden memorial for Larkin, which carries a carved message: "When the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind.” It’s a powerful reminder of how foundational work can pave the way for lasting change, illustrating how past efforts can continuously inspire future generations toward seeking excellence in education.