Economists have added education as a variable that fosters economic growth.

Researchers have examined how well education meets societys expectations. Money is not the only variable that relates to the quality of education. A students family, school leadership, teacher characteristics, and pedagogy contribute to some schools delivering a higher quality of education than others provide (Brimley & Garfield, 2008). Choice and Competition Brimley and Garfield (2008) compared some political and economic views on education. Friedman believed that the government should have less control over education. He would likely advocate for choice schools and a voucher system. Friedman (1955) argued that economists should clarify issues for the community to judge and make a choice. He thought government involvement prevents schools from having effective programs. Other economists examined the relationship between education and capitalism. Education and Capitalism Adam Smith emphasized producing income to improve the economy (Brimley & Garfield, 2008). Smith is likely to view education as essential to capitalism. He proclaimed that a nation becomes wealthy by allowing individuals to use their skills and capital to pursue personal interests. Smith believed that freedom allows prices and wages to reach peak levels. New products begin with high prices until competitors enter the market. Economists Views and Funding Economists views vary on the role that the government plays in education. Brimley and Garfield (2008) discussed a continuum of perspectives. Theorists such as Karl Marx thought the government should control education. John Keynes and John Galbraith believed government resources should come from the affluent community. Milton Friedman and Adam Smith thought government intervention should be limited in education. These perspectives relate to policy options for education in Oklahoma. Garrett (2010) reported current educational policies and sources of school funding in Oklahoma. The state was recognized for education programs and funding policies. There are fifteen charter schools in the state. Parents can choose to send their children to a public, charter, or private school. Title 70 of the Oklahoma Statues refers to education as a fine investment. Garrett (2010) outlined public school funding sources. Sixty-five percent of public school funding comes from the state. Twenty-four percent of school funds are from local and county revenue. Eleven percent of the money available to Oklahoma schools is from the federal government. Funding and educational policies in Oklahoma align with the perspectives of Friedman and Smith (Brimley & Garfield, 2008). Friedmans beliefs support school choice. Charter schools represent this idea. Parents have the option of choosing a school that best meets their childs needs. Smith has explained how education promotes a strong economy. Garrett (2010)

described educational policies, compares performance to the nation, and shows how schools are funded. Like Smith, Oklahoma views education as an investment. References Brimley, V. & Garfield, R. (2008). Financing education in a climate of change (10th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson. Friedman, M. (1955). A theory of the consumption function. Princeton: Princeton University Press,. Garrett, S. (2010). The progress of education reform. Investing in Oklahoma. 12(3) 1-58.