Intelligence: Our most effective weapon?

I have come to the conclusion that if School District of Philadelphia presented itself to be a mecca for scholar students with immense potential, that possibly the state would want to invest in us. We have been labeled a "cesspool"according to many decision making politicians. Although our test scores may not be the highest or our graduation rates the most astounding, we have the potential to better ourselves if given the proper funding. So why not show much potential lies within this "cesspool"? Why not show Pennsylvania politicians that we are worth their precious money? The district and city has pleaded with the state, and frankly it seems that we have tried to make them pity us. Presenting our district as weak and hopeless won't get us very far. Regardless of the underfunding, why not use this as a time to prove everyone who believes Philadelphia's school district "isn't worth it" wrong? We have the power to achieve and strive. Lets not only make the best of our situation, but lets exceed our past accomplishments. We have already used our words and misfortune in this battle. Intelligence could be our most effective weapon.