One of the most elusive problems confronted in designing state aid programs for the public schools has been the determination of equitable measures of local fiscal capacity. (Author)

Suggests that the Carnegie report failed to clearly define the role of the public broadcasting system, and recommends that the system's public mission be clarified to justify the call for more money, more independence, and more creativity. (Author/CMV)

Discusses the ramifications of Proposition 13 in light of cut-backs to community college personnel, programs, and services. Underscores that no aura surrounds the community college. Stresses that the days of unlimited availability of funds for community colleges have ceased. (CM)

Discusses the interdistrict inequities that exist in financing community colleges in California, Illinois, New Jersey, and Mississippi--four states in which districts contribute substantial revenues to local institutions. Links the problems of equity and adequacy that are intensified by increasing costs, declining enrollments, and the increase of…

Presents data on public library referenda for capital improvement projects and on operating levies. Highlights include package deals with other funding measures, success rates, library campaign messages, and a sidebar that details strategies used successfully by the Toledo-Lucas County (Ohio) Public Library. (Contains five tables.) (LRW)

Reviews the idealistic origins of the public library in the United States and the gradual shift from private to public financial support. It is argued that a skeptical attitude toward the public sector led to the recent financial crisis for public libraries, and that strategies for funding must include reaffirmation of the original idealistic…

To convince voters to approve a school tax increase, school board members need to do the following: (1) show a fiscally tight and well-organized school district; (2) show the public that you care; (3) show a sense of personal and board conviction; (4) explain how decisions have been reached; and (5) educate the public about school issues. (MLF)

Computer Ease is an intergenerational program designed to put an Ohio elementary school's computer lab, software library, staff, and students at the disposal of older adults desiring to become computer literate. Three 90-minute instructional sessions allow seniors to experience 1-to-1 high-tech instruction by enthusiastic, nonthreatening…

Using national data from various sources, this study investigates the influence of financial aspects of state higher education policy on college completion. It found that college completion is positively associated with total state grants as a percentage of appropriations of state tax funds for operating expenses of higher education and state…

Presents the arguments, pro and con, on the use of the local property tax to finance the schools. A bibliography is appended. (SJL)

Argues that categorical funds should be available with few restrictions so that local education agencies can make decisions on how to add the funds to the tax-levy base. Claims that this type of funding could provide a variety of instructional programs to meet the needs of targeted students, without segregating them or contributing to their…

Observing the types of progams affected by budget cuts during times of austerity may provide insight into how programs are selected and implemented during periods of abundance. Several areas for consideration during the budget cutting process are discussed. To develop sound educational programs, fundamental requirements must first be defined. (DF)

Describes how state and local school aid systems operate in Oklahoma, Delaware, and Alaska, how they have changed, how equity objectives vary among them, and how well the systems achieve objectives. Emphasizes special circumstances in each state and finds that equity must be studied in relation to other policy objectives. (JW)

The initial financial outcomes of the "voucher plan" applied to the nonpublic schools in British Columbia are assessed. The schools are then described and a summary of the methods of financing both public and nonpublic schools is offered. Impacts of aid on parents, students, taxpayers, and the government are discussed. (Author/PN)

The Supreme Court's decision in "Mueller v. Allen" raises important constitutional questions about state financial support for the promotion of religion. The case also raises the issue of whether this nation can provide adequate financial support for public schools while simultaneously diverting tax resources to the nonpublic schools.…