Careful on limits

Another factor that will have to be taken into account regarding school-funding in Missouri is the pledge by Republicans, who control the legislature and the governor's office, to avoid education dollars when withholding of appropriated funds is needed to keep spending within revenue limits.

State Rep. Nathan Cooper of Cape Girardeau has introduced a constitutional amendment to protect school funding. That amendment would require statewide voter approval.

Limiting the options can have undesirable results, particularly if Missouri has to face revenue shortfalls like those of recent years. This idea needs careful review before it's implemented.