In Illinois, the combination of aging structures, local taxpayer resistance to increased property taxes, and increased costs have all affected local school infrastructure feasibility. Proposes four steps districts should be required to take to meet their fiduciary responsibilities. (eight references) (MLF)

The "municipal overburden" argument alleges that cities lack adequate funding for their schools because they are unable to levy high enough tax rates. Examines support for the hypothesis held by jurists and legal commentators and then inquires why economists commonly find that position unacceptable. (MLF)

Examines the present status of curriculum laws, the constitutional rights of those who oppose curriculum laws, and the possible impact of reduced local property taxes on state-mandated curricula. Available from Willamette University College of Law, Salem, OR 97301. (Author/IRT)

Comprehensiveness, local control, and public funding combine to create public secondary schools that serve the educational needs of all students and are open to influence from people outside the school structure. From these sectors come demands for accountability; community influence; and a heavy commitment of resources to maintaining good…