2021 State of Our Schools 2021: America’s PK-12 Public School Facilities

This 2021 national report compiles and analyzes the best available school district data about U.S. K–12 public school facilities funding into a national and state-level summary, addressing three key questions:

1. Do states and districts have adequate operating funds for cleaning, maintenance, and repairs to ensure buildings and grounds are healthy and safe?
2. Are districts and states investing the capital funds necessary to ensure that their public schools are educationally appropriate, energy efficient, and environmentally responsible?
3. Are states and the federal government doing enough to ensure equity in education, so that all students have access to healthy and safe school facilities that support learning?

The report finds a significant annual underinvestment of $85 billion in U.S. PK–12 public school infrastructure. This funding gap hampers the ability to maintain safe, healthy, and conducive learning environments, disproportionately affecting low-income and underserved communities. Key findings indicate that many school facilities are outdated and in disrepair, lacking essential features such as adequate ventilation, lighting, and temperature control. Such deficiencies negatively impact student health, attendance, and academic performance. The report emphasizes that school buildings are not only educational spaces but also critical community assets, serving as venues for various public services and activities. In addition, the report advocates for increased and equitable investment in school infrastructure to ensure all students have access to quality learning environments. It calls for coordinated efforts among federal, state, and local governments to address disparities and modernize school facilities nationwide.