PRINCIPLES OF A SOUND STATE SCHOOL FINANCE SYSTEM

A recent report from the National Conference of State Legislatures defines a sound state school finance system by five principles: 1) Equity; 2) Efficiency; 3) Adequacy; 4) Accountability; and 5) Stability.

Most people respond to standards and incentives. Incentives are routinely used to encourage desirable behavior. Standards with incentives work in many organizations including business and universities. Because they expect later compensation in money and prestige, ambitious college students strive for academic performance. Students hope to be recruited by a major corporation or for admission to a top graduate or professional school.