The only organization dedicated solely to helping state boards advance equity and excellence in public education.

Education Governance

i

A Look at State Education Governance

State boards of education are different in every state and have diverse policy authority. Some are created by the state constitution and others by statute. Some of their members are elected; some are appointed. In many states, it is the state board who selects the state education chief. In others, it is the governor. Use […]

read more

The Standard - Article

Roadmap to Excellence: Strategic Planning for State Boards

Savvy boards can increase the odds their plans will live, breathe, and have measurable impact.

read more

i
Policy Update

Engaging Youth in Education Policymaking

More than 400 students now serve as members of state boards of education or state advisory councils in 33 states. Learn how states are elevating student voice and leadership in education policymaking.

read more

i
Policy Update

Involving Teachers in State Education Governance

A growing number of states boards of education see the advantages of involving teachers in policymaking decisions. Many have created a place for a current teacher to serve on the board.

read more

Press Release

NASBE’s Standard Examines Elements of Strong Leadership and Effective State Education Governance

Alexandria, VA—As new governors, legislators, state superintendents, and members of state boards of education begin their work after their elections and appointments, they join peers across the country who are grappling with how best to lead state education systems so that all students are well prepared for success in learning, work, and life. Despite the […]

read more
The Standard

Leading and Governing

Is there another domestic policy space more complicated than state education governance? In the face of the 50-plus ways of constructing state systems of public education in this country, the authors in this issue of The Standard attempt to tease out what constitutes strong leadership and effective governance.

read more
The Standard - Article

Harnessing the Power of Evidence-Based Policymaking

State boards should lean into education data and work to overcome challenges to doing so.

read more
The Standard - Column

From the President's Pen: Want to Be a Great State Board Member?

We are stronger when we work together and seek common ground.

read more
The Standard - Column

The NASBE Interview: Clarence Crawford, Eric Davis, and Casandra Ulbrich

As a board, we can disagree on policy matters without becoming disagreeable.

read more
The Standard - Article

The Role of Teachers Unions in School Governance during COVID-19

While relationships with school leaders were contentious in places, many districts benefited from collaborative ones.

read more
The Standard - Article

Roadmap to Excellence: Strategic Planning for State Boards

Savvy boards can increase the odds their plans will live, breathe, and have measurable impact.

read more
The Standard - Article

Effective State Education Governance

No one model is clearly superior, but relationships, talent, and shared loyalty are marks of governance systems that get things done.

read more
The Standard - Column

NCOSEA Voice: Resolving Disputes without a Lawyer

Resolving disputes requires careful attention to relationships and a willingness to work together.

read more