Public education supports California's economic growth and creates opportunities for the state's youth. Given that, it is important for Californians to understand how much the state is investing in its schools and how that money is being spent. Comparing California with the nation and other similar states can provide a useful perspective in…

On Nov. 8, 2005, California voters will decide whether to pass Proposition 76, known as the "Live Within Our Means Act." Sponsored by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the measure seeks to address state budget problems that have been particularly severe in California since 2002 due to cuts in state taxes and increases in state expenditures.…

This report sets out some possible goals for a California school finance system that could better support student performance. It also describes the key forces that will shape any debate about school finance reform in California and examines those in the context of some important aspects of an effective finance system. In the process, the report…

For the past year, the issue of public education funding has been particularly contentious in California. A pitched political battle between education advocates and the administration of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger began with a December 2004 preview of the governor's budget proposal for 2005?06. The fight continued through a spring filled with…