This book investigates the complex landscape of school-based financing and its implications for educational equity and effectiveness. Goertz, a leading scholar in education policy, draws upon extensive research and case studies to analyze how funding mechanisms directly impact school operations, resource allocation, and ultimately, student outcomes. The work critically examines various models of decentralized school finance, highlighting both their potential benefits and inherent challenges in achieving equitable educational opportunities.

This work is recognized as a significant contribution to the field of education policy and finance. Scholars in the field typically regard it as a comprehensive and insightful analysis of school-based financing systems. Its detailed examination of funding mechanisms and their impact on equity makes it a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and administrators seeking to understand and improve educational resource allocation.