Governments Education policy and administration in the United States begins at the state level and continues at the local and institutional levels. Regardless of size, each state and territory is internally self-governing and has authority with respect to educational matters within its jurisdiction. State boards of education are bodies of prominent citizens that, depending on the state, are either appointed by the legislature or governor, or elected by the public. In some cases the state board is responsible for all levels of education, but in most states the board concentrates on education at the primary and secondary levels. State superintendents are the highest education officials in state government, and are usually appointed by the state board of education or the governor.
Education tends to be the largest expenditure item in the budget of every state and territory.
States do not generally regulate postsecondary education as closely as they do elementary and secondary education. The essential autonomy of institutions and academic affairs is recognized in law and policy. However, through special boards or commissions, states do exercise oversight and governance of public higher education, set broad policies, and monitor institutional accountability for spending public funds and managing state-owned resources. Tell us what you think of this site and tell us how we can better meet your needs.