(Manning-AP) Oct. 8, 2003 -- A lawsuit that challenges the way South Carolina pays for its schools is attracting attention from outside the state.

A filmmaker whose credits include "Hoop Dreams," filmed court proceedings in Manning on Wednesday that will be included in a documentary about progress made since the 1954 Supreme Court decision desegregating schools.

Three dozen rural, largely black school districts are suing the state. They claim that the state's funding formula for schools shortchanges school districts in rural areas while wealthier, urban districts have an easier time providing students with an adequate education.

Lawyers for South Carolina argue that the state has constantly adjusted its educational policy to meet changing needs and to raise standards over the past 25 years.

Filmmaker Peter Gilbert says the trial in Manning is a sequel to Brown versus Board of Education. That landmark lawsuit is the subject of the documentary Gilbert is directing and producing that will be shown in theaters and on the Discovery Channel after its completion in May.

The trial in Manning is in its seventh week. On Friday the trial will adjourn until next year.

Posted 9:33pm by BrettWitt