The 1990 Kentucky Education Reform Act (KERA) was passed in an atmosphere of excitement, optimism, and national attention. Recent survey results suggest that most Kentucky residents want KERA to succeed and are willing to provide the necessary resources. However, skepticism may be increasing. Support differs according to several demographic…

The Kentucky constitution's intent was to found a free system of common schools. Historically, local support for Kentucky public schools has left much to be desired. Taxpayer reluctance to support schools through local property taxation is exacerbated by state legislation overtly discouraging this approach. Efficiency is, therefore, impossible.…

This study attempts to determine the potential economic impact of increasing levels of intergovernmental educational grants on school district spending decisions. This question is addressed through a cross-sectional analysis of the choice decisions made by 192 school districts in Kentucky. A conceptual model that evaluates the trade-off between…

State litigation involving unconstitutional school financing systems are described in this document, which focuses on efforts in Texas to reform the financing of public education. Since its school finance system was declared unconstitutional in 1987, two subsequent proposals have been struck down by the Texas Supreme Court for the following…

This paper describes the processes and methodology used in a 3-year study of the Kentucky Foundation Program--a body of related Kentucky revised statutes which directs the amount and flow of State aid for public education in the State. A technical committee, a research committee, a citizens advisory council, and local study committees examined…

To improve its cultural development, increase the economic efficiency of its public investment, and optimize equality of opportunity, Kentucky must introduce a new State school finance program. Such a program should provide for more efficient use of the public dollar, establish a framework wherein the public can measure school productivity, return…