Frequently Asked Questions About KSVT vs. Commonwealth of Kentucky

The Kentucky Student Voice Team is leading a campaign dubbed Rose Revival that is inspired by the landmark state supreme court decision, Rose v. Council for Better Education (1989). After nearly two year's worth of engagement and community forums across the Commonwealth, we know that the legacy of Rose has wilted, and that students will be at the center of the next solution.

We believe urgent legal action is needed to address systemic deficiencies in Kentucky’s education system, which is why in January 2025 we filed a groundbreaking lawsuit against the Commonwealth of Kentucky, asserting that the state has failed to fulfill its constitutional obligation to provide all students with an adequate and equitable public education.

Many questions have arisen from Kentuckians across the Commonwealth about the lawsuit, what its purpose and goal is, how to get involved and more. Below is our non-extensive list of FAQs that we will continue to update and add to as we continue to connect with our public school stakeholders.

Why File The Legal Complaint Now?

Students are not receiving the quality of education they have the constitutional right to. Decades of bipartisan mismanagement by Frankfort politicians has led to under-equipped educators and underfunded schools; our students are paying the price. The funding gap between the wealthiest and poorest districts has grown to $3,902 per student—higher than the unconstitutional levels identified in the Rose decision. This kind of inequity is leading to systemic issues in our education system. Kentucky has the opportunity to become a national model for education reform in the 21st century. After Rose, Kentuckians came together to ensure the next generation of children went to good public schools; we must make that promise to the next generation.

Are You Blaming Educators for These Issues?

Every Kentuckian knows an educator who has changed their life; our educators are the backbone of our public schools and communities. We should pay them what they deserve, ensure they have safe classrooms, and equip them with the resources they need to provide every student with a quality education. Kentucky educators’ pay has fallen 14.2% in real terms since 2008 (41st in the nation), and the state has one of the highest rates of educator vacancies in the country. Educators are doing their best under impossible conditions, and this lawsuit is about giving them the support they need. This lawsuit is about a system that’s failed to provide the resources and policies necessary for schools to thrive. Teachers and principals are essential partners in fixing this system, not the ones responsible for its failures.

Is This Just About Funding?

Ultimately, we know students are not receiving the quality of education they have the right to, which is what this case seeks to remedy. This lawsuit highlights the need for systemic reforms like better civic education, career readiness programs, and equitable resource distribution. In 1990, the state funded 75% of education costs, but today it funds less than 50%. We want the state to step up and meet its obligations to our students. Think of funding as the backbone of the system. Without it, schools can’t pay educators competitively, offer advanced coursework, or ensure students in poorer districts get the same opportunities as their peers in wealthier areas. Funding is essential to systemic education reform, but it cannot be the only piece. 

What Is This Case Asking For?

We want Kentucky to fulfill the constitutional promise of the Rose decision by ensuring every student has an education that provides them with critical thinking skills, civic knowledge, and career readiness. Too many students are being denied these opportunities because of systemic inequities. Achieving that vision of public schools means fair educator pay, modern facilities, and access to arts, technology, and mental health services for every child. 

Will This Embolden Anti-Public School Advocates?

The defeat of Amendment Two showed us that Kentuckians are demanding a doubling down on our commitment to public schools. This lawsuit is about going on the offensive for public schools by addressing the systemic failures that make them vulnerable to criticism. When schools are underfunded and inequitable, it’s easier for critics to argue that they don’t work. We are fighting against those who have sought to undermine educators and public schools by demanding a historic reinvestment in our education system. 

How Can I Get Involved in This Work?

Attend one of the public hearings we’re hosting as part of the Rose Revival Campaign. These events are a chance to learn more, share your voice, and help shape the solutions we’re advocating for. Sign up for our email newsletter and donate to the public engagement campaign fund on ksvt.org. You and/or you organization can endorse the Rose Revival Coalition to show others your support for the Rose Revival campaign and access campaign coalition materials  

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