Marie Danforth: Franklin needs sustainable funding, not phantom money

To The Daily Sun,

The Franklin School District faces an urgent challenge: the need for sustainable funding. While recent interest in improving our schools is encouraging, much of the conversation has relied on hopeful rhetoric rather than realistic solutions.

One suggestion has been to advocate for increased state adequacy aid, with claims that Franklin could receive $8 million annually and that the City of Franklin would directly benefit. While well-intentioned, this is not realistic. For over 30 years — and despite two Supreme Court rulings — the Legislature has failed to act. The judiciary can issue opinions, but only the Legislature, particularly the House of Representatives, can allocate funding. Even if adequacy aid were increased, it is unlikely to reach the suggested level. In addition, by law, any increase would go directly to the school district. The City of Franklin would receive monetary benefit if the current 35% tax allocation is reduced.

Another proposal is to change the city/school tax split from 35%–65% to 40%–60%. This would only trade one crisis for another, as the city already struggles to fund essential services. With this plan, breaking the tax cap would be the only path forward. Franklin voters have consistently rejected this option.

It’s also important to note that Franklin’s per-student cost is already higher than neighboring districts such as Winnisquam, due in part to factors like special education, transportation, and out-of-district placements. These costs are unpredictable and significant.

For decades, New Hampshire schools have sought “phantom money” without success. While advocacy should continue, Franklin must focus on sustainable solutions. Grants have been helpful and appreciated, but are not long-term solutions. These opportunities are becoming scarce.

Our financial challenges did not appear overnight and will not be solved overnight. Franklin needs honest leadership, hard conversations, and realistic, sustainable funding strategies. Try contacting legislators and attending meetings.

Marie Danforth

Franklin