Throwing more money at the problem

Gov. Ed Rendell signed a bill today authorizing $274 million more in state funding for public schools.

Pennsylvania now contributes $9.7 billion a year to public education. The rest of the money (a number that may be too high to count) comes from local property taxes.

So why aren't Pennsylvania students doing better in tests? Why do so many high school graduates have trouble with basic reading and math?

To hear Rendell and the education lobby talk, it's all about throwing more money at the problem. It's always been about money. The more you spend, the smarter the kids, right?

Are we getting our money's worth?

Governor Rendell Signs Education Budget Benefiting Children and Taxpayers; Laying Groundwork for Long-Term Funding Adequacy