If we find that base funding does not support adequate numbers of support staff, how do we argue that the base number ought to be increased?

TDOE states the proposed $6,860 base would make Tennessee the second-highest base in the southeast behind Arkansas ($7,018) and the 12th highest base in the country. Stakeholders could advocate for a higher base, or depending on the type of support staff, a more significant Unique Learning Needs weight (ULN includes students with disabilities, English learners, characteristics of dyslexia, or identified for gifted) based on state comparisons. For more information on state comparisons, see FundEd’s national policy maps. It is important to note that the base is subject to appropriations, so advocates can still weigh in even though the TISA legislation passed.