The role of state departments of education (SDEs) is changing because of changes in patterns and demands in the administration of education. Three trends are easily identifiable--school consolidation, increased school district autonomy, and the demand for accountability. There is substantial evidence that SDEs have not readily adjusted to these…

This study examines the purpose of the school district structure and the manner in which it reflects the expectations of citizens for their school system. The document focusses on the community involvement and financial aspects of reorganization and examines (1) the basic pattern of school district reorganization in North America to find some…

Examines the current national policy situation regarding quality assurance in the United Kingdom, as revealed through the work of the Audit Commission and the local education authorities' early responses to that work. Describes current quality assurance practices in Barset as perceived by various authority respondents, comparing it to Dorset's…