It is possible that some of the statistics, tables and analyses in this report will lead to compromises in some policy battles. For instance, including benefits in the debate over teacher compensation might be helpful. Chances are better that this report will lead to fewer agreements. For example, liberal and conservative politicians may agree that "we need to spend more money in the classroom." They may even pass legislation to do just that. But "in the classroom" may mean different things to different sides. When the money arrives, will it be spent on salaries or supplies? The "agreement" is a mirage.

This report is meant to reduce the number of mirages. How a debate is framed can determine its outcome. This happens far too often in public education and in some cases descends to the "Do you still beat your wife?" level. Perhaps we can have a few new arguments, instead of the same ones over and over again.