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“How and by whom are education policy decisions made in my state?” The answer to that question varies tremendously, depending on both state and education level. The answer also carries important implications for how policy is proposed and implemented and how programs are administered.
Our suite of resources on governance structures in early childhood, K-12 and postsecondary education aim to (1) make sense of the various state models that influence the policymaking process and (2) assist state leaders as they work within the governance systems to achieve their education goals.
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Policy Brief
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Early Education (P-3)High SchoolK-12PostsecondaryWorkforce
Over the past five years, governors have been pretty consistent when it comes to education issues featured in their state of the state addresses. However, they have completely shifted on what they prioritize within those issues. From COVID-19 pandemic recovery to career and technical education, states […]
Early Education (P-3)High SchoolK-12PostsecondaryWorkforce
Each year, governors across the country step to the podium to deliver their State of the State addresses. These speeches offer far more than a summary of the past year. They provide an […]
Early Education (P-3)High SchoolK-12PostsecondaryWorkforce
State leaders need to answer increasingly complex questions about how policy decisions across early care and education, K–12, postsecondary and workforce systems connect to long-term economic mobility. Answering those questions requires coherent, aligned data systems […]
Early Education (P-3)High SchoolK-12PostsecondaryWorkforce
Off-year elections may have been fewer in number, but their impact on education policy is far-reaching. In New Jersey, Virginia and states with targeted initiatives, these races will shape education leadership appointments, funding decisions and legislative priorities. These contests also provide a critical […]
Early Education (P-3)High SchoolK-12Postsecondary
Twenty years ago, Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans, Louisiana, killing 1,833 people and causing $108 billion in damage. It devastated education in the region by destroying over 100 school buildings […]
Early Education (P-3)High SchoolK-12Postsecondary
In January, destructive wildfires spread across Los Angeles — displacing approximately 150,000 residents and causing serious damage to homes, businesses and school buildings. Over eight months later, the city is […]
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