This book chronicles the history of school finance reform in Texas between 1968 and 1995. Specifically, the book focuses on the substantial changes in the method of funding Texas public schools, aimed at creating a more equitable system of educational opportunity. The author, Dr. Jose A. Cardenas, founded the Intercultural Development Research Association, which is dedicated to the principle that all students are entitled to equal educational opportunities. Dr. Cardenas has been actively involved in school finance reform since the early 1970s when he was superintendent of the Edgewood Independent School District, a poor Mexican American district in San Antonio, and when the historic Rodriguez vs. San Antonio ISD litigation (involving Edgewood) was settled. The book begins with a description of the Texas system of school finance from 1950 through 1973, focusing on its major flaw--"local enrichment"--and on myths and misconceptions of school finance. The remainder of the book details court cases, legislation, and advocacy efforts and concludes with the current status of school finance reform. Dr. Cardenas' recollections, impressions, and opinions are substantiated by a collection of documents compiled during the 27-year period that includes correspondence and memoranda, reports of meetings and conferences, financial records, legal records, and publications. The book contains 159 references on school finance, a list of 142 court cases, and an index. (LP)