Stories abound about public school teachers unions fighting against voucher systems and charter schools that offer better educations at a better prices.

However, one public school district in New York is going rogue by trying to appeal to out-of-district students. Incoming scholars would then pay tuition, to support the cash-strapped system.

It seems shockingly “free market”.

Tuition income doesn’t usually amount to much at public schools. But a suburban New York district is hoping to boost revenue by attracting students from other districts who would pay about $20,000 a year.

The Blind Brook-Rye district has sent a brochure to households in neighboring areas. The brochure touts small class sizes, high scores on standardized tests and 16 Advanced Placement courses.

The superintendent says even a couple of dozen tuition-paying students would make a big difference in his $41 million budget.

He says with tax caps and dwindling enrollment, the district has recently had to lay off teachers.

It’s rare for public schools to actively recruit tuition-paying students from nearby. Experts say Blind Brook’s strategy shows the financial pressures public schools face.