Good questions, and I agree with much of what you say here. I don't agree with the conclusions you draw, though. Yes, the measure doesn't stipulate the amount of the "other funds," and so our elected officials have to deliberate about exact allocations as the budget and revenue picture takes shape. But this is why we elect them. We wouldn't want to do this two years ahead of time on a statewide ballot. And the Measure does provide a constraint. The revenues have to go the designated areas. Yes, other funds can be moved around but the new revenues are strictly designated. A process has to take place.

Does funding alone create a wise and effective educational plan for Oregon? Of course not. But without stabilizing our revenues and our tax structure it will be more difficult for any plan to work. 

Finally, I am probably as pessimistic as you about the potential for positive change in our educational system. But I'm going to keep fighting for it. We need the funding to have a chance.