Let's examine how the system works. Robin Hood was known for taking from the rich to give to the poor. That is the reasoning behind the system that is meant to provide an equal opportunity education to all Texas students. Since school funding is derived from property tax revenue, there was quite a disparity between spending on students from poor areas and those from rich areas. The rule was meant to equalize the spending thereby equalizing opportunity.
So, how did Dallas ISD get in the situation where they had to pay? Easy, for the 2008-2009 school year, property values within the district increased with new buildings and shopping centers while student enrollment declined. Traditionally, the Houston and Dallas ISD have been left out (or loopholed out) of the system altogether since they are both unique in location, demographics and size. The current economic situation and lower property values will mean that district will not have to "share the wealth" this year.
America prides itself on being the land of opportunity. Education is the single most important determining factor on the success of an individual. It could mean the difference between a person earning a six figure income or a welfare recipient. So whether or not you feel that the system is fair or that you should not have to pay to educate other people's children, it is what separates us from other counties. It is not always about what we spend, but how we spend what we have that we should look at.
Opportunity. Choices. That all men are created equal. America.
