Special masters Named In School Funding Case

Two former state Supreme Court justices will evaluate the state`s progress in developing a plan to overhaul Arkansas` unconstitutional public education system. The special masters were appointed by the Supreme Court today and instructed to make a wide-ranging evaluation. The court named former Chief Justice Bradley Jesson of Fort Smith and former Justice David Newbern of Little Rock to take care of the task. The two are to be sworn in Thursday in the state Supreme Court chamber. They are to examine actions taken before and after a January first court deadline to provide equal educational opportunities for all of Arkansas` school children. Their findings are due in 60 days. The court said the masters` role would largely involve examining documents and materials, but that resources would be made available to them if they want to take testimony. They will have subpoena powers. Posted by Mike Hellgren