The only organization dedicated solely to helping state boards advance equity and excellence in public education.
Developing Content Standards: A Foundational Task for State Boards
State boards of education typically play a central role in approving academic content standards, though their authority varies by state. This boardsmanship review outlines guiding principles and common processes to help state boards develop high-quality standards.Parliamentary Procedures: Key to Democratic Decision Making on State Boards
State boards of education often have important responsibilities for decisions on education policy, among other duties that require consensus. A grasp of the basic elements of parliamentary procedure is therefore important for the well-equipped board member.
Learning to Lead for Equity
Many state boards of education put equity at the center of their missions. This piece highlights the work of our Leading for Equity and Excellence Program (LEEP) and how it has coached state boards to be equity leaders.
Defining and Defending State Board Authority
State board members should act early and often to articulate their board’s vital role in achieving excellence and equity for all students.
Working with the Governor
Governors and state boards can make real advances in education policy when they work together, with the governor articulating broad goals for education and the state board developing the policy infrastructure to support those goals.
Working with the Media
Board members can work with the media to help communicate important decisions to stakeholders and build public trust.
Building Partnerships in the Education Community
Successful engagement creates a sense of buy-in and shared ownership of the state’s vision and strategic plan for education.
Conflict of Interest
How state boards can avoid conflicts of interest and the appearance of such conflicts.
Building Partnerships with the State Legislature
The interests of students are usually best served when state legislatures and state boards view education policymaking as a shared responsibility.