Public school systems depend on federal, state, and local dollars to provide K-12 public education to each child whose parent chooses public education. Ensuring that predictable and sustainable education funding is provided to the 69 elected school boards is essential. Unfunded mandates pushed down on the local school boards threaten their ability to meet the obligation to public school students.

Elected School Boards, as representatives of the community, need the freedom and capacity to make the educational policy decisions that best meet the needs of their local communities.

Elected School Boards have the ability to create positive, holistic educational experiences through policy. It is vital that the needs of each local community are not over-ridden by broad statewide policies. Compliance with the state accountability system must also recognize local community priorities.