When it comes to student achievement in Pennsylvania public schools, Gov. Rendell says the state must spend more on programs that work.

But gubernatorial challenger Lynn Swann says taxpayers don't get their money's worth and prefers redirecting the money to needy districts.

"Pennsylvania's state spending on education ranks in the top 10 nationally, but our SAT scores rank in the bottom 10," Swann said. "We are failing to teach our kids critical reading and math skills - especially when it comes to our minority students."

Education takes up about a third of the state's $26.1 billion budget. In the last four years, Rendell has made good on his promise to increase spending for kindergarten through 12th grade. The state funds 37.4 percent of the bill, up from 36.7 percent in 2002-03.

It looks like Swann is more interested in throwing money at the problem and Rendell is looking for successful investment.