A description of the Serrano vs. Priest class action suit in California, challenging the system of financing education through property taxes; author touches upon the possibilities for the courts becoming change agents in the struggle for social reform. (SP)

Examines present lack of judicial restraint by analyzing "Missouri v. Jenkins," a case upholding a court-ordered tax increase to fund school desegregation. Maintains that elected representatives placate interest groups and abdicate power in favor of the courts when political decisions are unpopular. Questions the implications for future…

This document provides background information intended to help in the formulation of educational finance policy at the national level. The first chapter discusses variations in spending within and between states since the 1930s; causes for inequitable and inefficient revenue raising and resource allocation; and differences between states in…