School Finance

School Finance: A Policy Perspective, 6th Edition, presents an evidence-based model for funding resources, programs, and services across K-12 education. Written by Allan Odden and published by McGraw-Hill Higher Education, this textbook focuses on the fiscal challenges faced by leaders at the district and state policy levels.

The volume examines foundational topics such as legal issues, evaluative frameworks for equity and adequacy, and the public finance context. It also addresses formula options, adequate staffing, and strategic budgeting designed to improve student learning.

In addition to conceptual frameworks, the book incorporates a web-based school finance simulation tool. Accompanied by an explanatory appendix, the tool allows readers to enter local staffing and resource data to analyze funding problems and simulate different finance structures.