Public School Governance

While leadership in public education is regularly studied as a critical factor in school success, discussions about leadership seldom include school governance. However, effective governance by a traditional school district board or charter school board is a necessary foundation for a well-functioning, high-performing system. School districts and charter schools in Missouri have different board structures that impact the way members are selected and may influence how they approach their governance responsibilities. In this policy brief we identify distinctions between charter school and school district board powers and responsibilities, examine the composition and selection of Missouri charter school and school district boards, and consider the broader issues of democracy, representation, and effectiveness.