Written in plain language for community members, parents, school leaders, and school board members, this book explains where school funding comes from and how a school budget is developed, and discusses related issues of equity and adequacy. Many of the book's examples and comparisons come from real situations in Illinois schools. The book begins with a history of publicly supported education and a look at the foundations of current state and national policies on educational opportunity. Landmark cases are reviewed to illustrate recent research on the relationship between student achievement, socioeconomic status, teacher qualifications, and federal and state policies impacting the funding of schools. The book concludes with recommendations for equitable funding.