Public education funding in the past 40 years has increased significantly, with parties turning to the judiciary in order to address perceived educational opportunity inequities arising from state education finance distribution formulas. As the 21st century opens, the question of public education finance is set squarely before the courts. This article is presented in order to better appreciate this area of American jurisprudence. It is necessary to consider judicial theory, constitutional interpretation, and the unique nature of state courts and constitutions. (Contains 147 footnotes.)