State school-spending comparison remains unverified

A claim about state education spending in Miami-Dade says private-school students may be receiving more public money than students in public schools. The comparison cannot be confirmed without the spending totals, the state agency responsible for the payments, and the period being measured.

What the comparison would need to show

A valid comparison would identify the amount spent on private-school students and the amount spent on public-school students in Miami-Dade. It would also need to use the same time period and explain whether the figures cover tuition assistance, scholarships, transportation, administrative costs or another category of spending.

Why the figures matter

A per-student comparison can change depending on which expenses are counted and how students are counted. The number of students in each group, the source of the money and the program rules would all affect the result.

What is established

The headline claim identifies Miami-Dade schools and a difference between private- and public-school spending. It does not establish a dollar amount, a date, a state decision or an official vote. Without those details, the claim should not be presented as a confirmed change in education funding.

Next records to check

The relevant state education agency and Miami-Dade school authorities would be the places to verify payment totals and enrollment counts. Any law, budget document or program report used for the comparison should identify the program, fiscal year and students covered.