Why "free" public education doesn't always include school supplies

This NPR Planet Money Indicator podcast episode discusses the hidden costs of free public education, focusing on school supplies. The episode highlights the significant amount parents spend on supplies, contrasting this with a Colorado Springs school district's initiative to cover these costs using Title I funds. The podcast also explores the broader issue of underfunding in public schools, citing the impact of the Great Recession and school choice initiatives, and discusses the financial burdens faced by both parents and teachers. The episode concludes by mentioning state-level legislation aimed at addressing the issue of school supply costs, but notes that implementation varies widely.