The second week of a trial over the way Kansas funds public schools has opened with testimony from a Rutgers University expert on the subject.

Bruce Baker, formerly of the University of Kansas, was the first witness called Monday by lawyers for school districts that filed suit in Shawnee County District Court. The districts contend they get don’t enough money to satisfy the state constitution’s mandate for providing a “suitable education.”

Baker testified it’s not enough that students achieve proficiency on standardized math and science tests. He says Kansas has to ensure they graduate with the skills to succeed in higher education or in the labor force.

Baker also said some districts need additional resources to make sure students with special academic needs don’t require remedial courses later in school.