School budget problems are discussed in 13 chapters, and solutions are suggested. Case studies present successful experiences with various problems while brief subsections summarize recommended actions. The first two chapters note that budget problems are worsening and trace the causes to tax revolts, state involvement in education, and the decline of school incomes, enrollments, and public confidence. Topics covered in the remaining chapters include (1) seven steps that help solve budget problems; (2) alternative budgeting methods, such as zero-base, program, or school-based budgeting; (3) participation of other groups in budget development; (4) making budget contents understandable; (5) planning budget cuts; (6) strategies for school finance campaigns; (7) the four basic public relations steps of analysis, planning, communication, and evaluation; (8) tips for working with the news media; (9) responses to six common criticisms of public schools; (10) collective bargaining methods; and (11) lobbying in state legislatures. (RW)