Story perspectives

Kentucky Supreme Court Strikes Down Charter School Funding Law

2/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Kentucky Supreme Court ruled the 2022 charter school funding law unconstitutional.
Justice Michelle Keller said the law violates the Kentucky Constitution's system of common schools.
Chief Justice Debra Lambert noted the law would apply only in some counties, raising accountability concerns.
Governor Andy Beshear hailed the ruling as a victory for public education, and advocates praised it.
GOP leaders criticized the decision for limiting educational options for low-income families.

History

Historical Context

The Kentucky Education Reform Act of 1990 aimed to enhance public school funding and accountability for over 700,000 students. Recent rulings by the Kentucky Supreme Court, including the 2022 decision against charter school funding, reflect ongoing debates about educational equity and access, particularly for low-income families, echoing concerns from the reform era and shaping future legislative discussions.

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Story summary

The Kentucky Supreme Court ruled the 2022 charter school funding law unconstitutional.
Justice Michelle Keller said the law violates the Kentucky Constitution's system of common schools.
Chief Justice Debra Lambert noted the law would apply only in some counties, raising accountability concerns.
Governor Andy Beshear hailed the ruling as a victory for public education, and advocates praised it.
GOP leaders criticized the decision for limiting educational options for low-income families.

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