The 2016 elections brought about Changes in State Education Leadership across the country. Of the 12 states that held governors’ races, seven governors are new to their post in 2017. In statehouses, Republicans control 66 legislative chambers and Democrats control 31 legislative chambers. Four states elected new chief state school officers and there are at least 24 new state board of education members in the 10 states that voted on board members this year.
As we move into 2017 and as you prepare for legislative sessions, work on ESSA state plans and implementation, and set policy priorities and budgets for 2017, we encourage you to think of Education Commission of the States as an essential, indispensable member of your state team addressing education policy. As you know, we are non-partisan and we serve all 50 states.
Here are a few reminders of how Education Commission of the States provides support:
- Research & Reports – Education Commission of the States compiles 50-State Comparisons and reports on education policies from early childhood through postsecondary education. These resources provide state policymakers with the relevant and timely information needed to make informed decisions for their state. See a listing of our most recent reports and check out our Best of 2016 to see our most accessed reports, 50-State Comparisons, blogs and more.
- Counsel – Education Commission of the States’ staff are available to provide unbiased advice on policy plans, consult on proposed legislation and testify at legislative hearings as third-party experts.
- State Policy Database – Education Commission of the States’ staff review enacted state legislation and regulations weekly to keep this comprehensive database updated. You are able to easily explore legislation and regulations in several manners including by topic, state and year.
- Convening thought leaders - Convenings such as the National Forum on Education Policy provide unparalleled opportunities for education leaders from across the aisle and across the states to interact, learn and collaborate. Please mark your calendars for the 2017 National Forum on Education Policy being held June 28-30, 2017, in San Diego at the Hotel Del Coronado. Registration will open in March.
We also encourage you to stay up-to-date with the most recent news and resources by subscribing to our publications.
Please reach out early and often. We look forward to working with you in 2017 and beyond!
Education Commission of the States’ State Relations Team
Sara Shelton, Assistant Director of State Relations, sshelton@ecs.org, 303-299-3667
Tonette Salazar, State Relations Strategist, tsalazar@ecs.org, 720-231-1425
Kate Wolff, State Relations Strategist, kwolff@ecs.org, 303-299-3621
