In 2001-02, the median total expenditure by school districts in the nation was $8,424 per student.

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

IDEAS

MORE TAKING ADVANTAGE OF FREE TUTORS

In December, Broward County (Fla.) Public Schools wrapped up their third round of provider fairs designed to inform eligible families about free tutoring available for their children under the No Child Left Behind Act. Approximately 31,000 students in the district — the fifth largest in the nation — qualify for supplemental educational services.

So far, more than 4,700 students have signed up, a fraction of those eligible, but significantly more than the 330 registered in 2004-05. The increase is credited to several efforts, including a multiple enrollment season; a partnership with the Urban League, which hosted town hall meetings; and an automated phone system announcing events.

Source: U.S. Department of Education, The Achiever, January 2007

RESOURCES

SUMMER WORKSHOPS FOR TEACHERS IN 22 CITIES

The U.S. Department of Education has named 22 cities as sites for its annual summer regional free workshops for teachers to learn best practices from fellow educators successful in raising student achievement. The department hopes to reach up to 4,000 teachers.

For a list of workshop dates, locations and more, go to www.ed.gov and click on "summer workshops."