[SydneyK]

My priority for local and federal taxes is the same: Education (public, higher, adult, you name it). NCLB did very little to improve public education. Many states have enacted different versions of education reform acts - and many of those reforms are actually regressions. I'd give all my taxes to education reform if they'd let me. Unfortunately, I'm afraid they'd waste it anyway.

Are any of you familiar with TRiO programs? They're federally-funded programs that, in general, are designed to reinforce to economically disadvantaged students the advantages and benefits of education. I used to really support the TRiO programs on the campuses where I've worked. However, I recently had the opportunity to work closely with a TRiO program where I currently work. The spending is ridiculous! The waste is unbelievable! I had to pick my jaw up off the floor several times I was so shocked at what I saw. I'm afraid I'm not such a fan of TRiO anymore. At least, I'm not a fan of that particular program.

So, while my tax priority is education, I think there's some serious mis-spending (on both the federal and state levels) in regard to education.