Local voters demand value for their property taxes, as opposed to money they pay in hidden sales taxes shipped to Tallahassee for redistribution. State distribution merely lets local officials off the hook, which is precisely what advocates of higher taxes and spending are seeking in Tallahassee. They specifically are trying to allow local officials to raise taxes, without voter approval, in addition to millions in new state funds. Hoxby describes a market-based system that makes a great deal of sense. Local voters will authorize money for an effective school system because good schools will increase their property values.
Good schools indicate smart voters.
Smart voters elect good officials and entrust them with sufficient funds to do a good job. You get as good a system as you want. Jacksonville's public schools were found to be slightly above average in an audit of effectiveness done by SchoolMatch. Even so, an intensive effort now is under way to raise the level of achievement. The local property tax system encourages people who place a high value on education to support public schooling.