Public education is usually supported because of the "externalities". Specifically, the benefits from the education are greater than the benefits to the individual. On this basis, an argument over which level of government should fund education has ensued. Nationally, most funding has come from property taxes and other local sources. The second largest source of funding is from states. However, the benefits extend well beyond localities, or even states, and some economists believe it should be nationally funded because the externalities are experienced nationally. Use "economic" arguments to justify leaving funding (and control) at the local level (even if you do not agree). Do not over-complicate this question.