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Ted Strickland wants greater control of education policy. Good. A governor is well positioned to drive improvement
Published on Friday, Feb 15, 2008
The plan would restructure the governance of public K-12 education. It would reduce to advisory roles the state school board and its appointee, the state superintendent, making the governor's office directly accountable for policies and performance.
Strickland argues persuasively that this alignment of responsibility is necessary to shape an innovative, streamlined educational system of the sort that can adapt rapidly in a dynamic global economy. Indeed, recent independent reviews have noted the fragmented system in the state. The Ohio Grantsmakers Forum, for instance, in a 2006 report pointed to disconnected goals resulting from the separate systems of governance in the state system. The report concluded that a pressing challenge is ''to ensure that basic systems and structures are in sync.''
An essential step in that direction is just what Strickland has proposed: taking full responsibility for transforming the system. The move mirrors the one taken last year, with the support of the legislature, to elevate the office of the chancellor of the Board of Regents to Cabinet level and make the office accountable to the governor. The restructuring is justified. That's not to say that adding another functionary to the K-12 mix is necessary.
The state school board contends the current structure of K-12 governance serves Ohio well, the hybrid board (11 elected members and eight appointees) ensuring the governor and the public both have input. The board argues further that the transparency and independence insulate policymaking from partisan politics. The board also is concerned that changes in Statehouse leadership could affect continuity in educational policies and priorities.
Without question, the board raises valid concerns about the risks of partisanship and loss of continuity. As it happens, it has not been immune itself from distracting influences, as its forays into creationism and intelligent design have demonstrated all too fully.
It isn't surprising the board, after a half-century in charge, is balking at the possible loss of turf. It sees a violation of the state constitution, which stipulates a state school board and a superintendent. The constitution also leaves the definition of their powers and duties up to legislation, something the General Assembly and the governor must work through.
With the K-12 follow-up to the Regents Board alignment, Strickland has signaled both the urgency required to put Ohio's school systems in sync with 21st century demands and a willingness to take the heat for it. After all, he did say he should be judged by what he does in public education.
Get the full article here.
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