Public education in the U.S., particularly in Kansas and Arizona, is facing significant funding challenges, with Arizona ordered to pay $317 million in back payments to schools and an additional $1.3 billion owed. Critics highlight the detrimental effects of "teaching to the test," as seen with Arizona's AIMS test, which has been replaced by a new assessment, AzMERIT, amid concerns about its effectiveness. The lack of correlation between funding and student achievement raises questions about the role of politicians in educational decision-making, especially in states with controversial policies. Additionally, the rising costs of college education and student loan debt, now exceeding $1.1 trillion, underscore the urgent need for reform in the education system. Overall, there is a consensus that adequate funding and effective educational strategies are crucial for improving public education outcomes in the U.S.