AbstractsEducation Research & Administration

This position paper explores whether the current model of governance of public education is antiquated and in need of change. At present, the issue has not been included in any discussions regarding public education reform. Local boards of education are becoming obsolete due to federal and state mandates. School reform efforts have ignored the local governance factor, instead focusing on state-implemented curricula tied to federal funding. The literature shows us that local school boards focus on administrative issues and micromanagement which, along with such distractions as nepotism and “unholy alliances” with unions, indicates a need for change. However, the democratic foundation of our government makes it hard for legislators to implement a change that would be perceived as an attack on these basic principles. This position paper puts forth suggestions to these and other concerns related to local public education governance.