The logic and methodological concepts behind the application of a quantitative methodology to the problem of effective resource utilization in the New York State suburban schools is detailed. The goal of the study was to determine the best composition of available "factors of production," measured in dollar amounts by function, that would lead to a situation whereby school districts would produce a predetermined level of desired educational ends, while considering the students, community, teachers, and other educational attributes observed in the districts. This and other research problems were explored through application of a hybrid approach composed of economics and management science paradigms. Two empirical models were constructed. The first is descriptive, composed of 28 logistic equations, each of which portrays the quantitative relationships between school district resources and scholastic outcomes. A sample of 200 districts was used to calibrate this model. The second model is prescriptive; it is used to allocate the resources available within the districts so as to achieve the desired level of scholastic outcomes. A goal-programming technique was used in conjunction with the logistic equations to construct this model. Four scenarios were formulated to demonstrate the application of this model. Twelve tables, three charts, and a 127-item list of references are included. (Author/SLD)