In this study, we investigate the types of overlay provisions used in public school funding and the impacts that these provisions can have on equity, fiscal neutrality, and adequacy in school funding. We begin by reviewing the various overlay provisions that could be used by states. We then turn to an analysis of Indiana's 2004 foundation aid…

This overview provides a synthesis of a comprehensive survey of school finance programs in the 50 states conducted in 2006-07. Information was provided by chief state school finance officers or persons with expertise in a state's public school funding-allocation system. Brief descriptions of the major Pre-K-12 funding formulae, district-based…

Examined disequalizing effects of two nonvoted millage rates (discretionary millage and the school capital improvement millage) when combined with revenues obtained through the equalized foundation portion of the Florida Education Finance Program. Although discretionary levies add a slightly disequalizing component to the foundation program…

Compares the use of a foundation program approach and a percentage or "power equalizing" approach to state school aid, and discusses typical formulas for calculating state aid under each approach. (JG)

Analysis of developments in school finance from 1971 to 1982 reveals that, although revenue equity is moderate by national standards, Maryland ranks poorly on measures of wealth neutrality. Reform efforts have had little effect on equity due in part to the relatively low level of the foundation. (MJL)

The bonding authority and bond bank concepts have evolved as effective and efficient methods of assisting local education agencies in financing school facility construction and other capital improvement programs. This discussion defines bonding corporations and reviews their historical development, current status, and potential. (TE)

This article presents a case study of the school finance controversy in Texas with special emphasis on the results of two school finance bills enacted in successive sessions of the legislature. (Author/IRT)

Describes some of the major trends and developments in Canadian school finance and discusses some of the key school finance issues presently facing provincial governments. (Author/JG)

Argues that because past federal interventions in the nation's economy have created great wealth differentials among states, and because present federal policies perpetuate these inequities, the federal government should establish a federal foundation program to assure an adequate education for students in poorer states. (Author/JG)

Uses a foundation-equalizing model to develop a number of indicators measuring the extent to which states utilize the full range of equalization tools at its disposal. Illustrates the utility of these indicators through an evaluation of the school finance reform instituted by Rhode Island between 1992 and 1996. (Contains 25 references.)…

Presents a proposal to achieve major finance reform goals by providing property tax relief and increasing state funding out of income-tax receipts, relying on Illinois' growth dividend. The plan is funded by proportional taxes and would make school reform more politically palatable to affluent taxpayers. (28 footnotes) (MLH)

Data are analyzed in support of the conclusion that fiscal neutrality has nearly been achieved since 1974 legislation mandating uniform tax rates and a foundation program of school aid. Remaining disparities in per pupil revenue and expenditure are interpreted as a function of varying pupil and school district needs. (MJL)

Interviews involving 58 Ohio stakeholders focused on detailing state K-12 education goals, identifying the current system's strengths and weaknesses, and discussing the financial/political viability of potential school funding strategies. Consensus emerged regarding the role of property taxes, local control, the foundation formula rationale, and…