As an expert in the field of education administration, I can provide an in-depth analysis of who runs the public school system in the United States. The governance and operation of public schools are a complex interplay of federal, state, and local authorities, with each level playing a distinct role in shaping the education landscape.
Step 1: Federal Government's Role
The federal government contributes significantly to education policy but has a limited direct role in the day-to-day operations of public schools. The Department of Education, established in 1979, is responsible for enforcing federal education laws and distributing federal education funds to states and school districts. However, as mentioned, the federal government's financial contribution to public education is relatively small, typically less than 10 percent of the total cost. This percentage underscores the fact that while the federal government sets national education standards and provides guidelines, it is not the primary entity running the public school system.
Step 2: State Government's Role
States play a more substantial role in the operation of public schools. They are responsible for establishing minimum standards for education, including curriculum requirements, teacher certification, and student assessment. States also fund a portion of public education, with the money coming from state taxes. The level of state involvement can vary significantly from one state to another, reflecting the diversity of educational needs and priorities across the country.
**Step 3: Local Governments and School Districts**
Local governments, particularly school districts, are the entities most directly involved in running public schools. School districts are local administrative units that are responsible for the management of public schools within their geographical boundaries. They are governed by elected or appointed school boards, which are tasked with making decisions about everything from hiring and firing staff to setting budgets and approving new construction projects.
School boards are composed of community members who are often parents or have a vested interest in the quality of local education. They are responsible for ensuring that schools are meeting state and federal standards while also responding to the unique needs of their communities. The funding for public schools is primarily derived from local property taxes, which means that the wealthier the community, the more money is typically available for education.
**Step 4: Private Schools and Their Operators**
In contrast to public schools, private schools are funded, owned, and operated by private organizations. These can range from religious institutions to non-profit organizations and for-profit companies. Private schools have more autonomy in terms of their curriculum, teaching methods, and admissions policies. They are not subject to the same regulations and oversight as public schools, which allows them to be more innovative but also means they do not receive public funding.
**Step 5: The Role of Teachers and Administrators**
Within the public school system, teachers and administrators play a crucial role in the day-to-day operation of schools. Teachers are responsible for delivering instruction and ensuring that students are meeting learning objectives. Administrators, such as principals and superintendents, oversee the operations of individual schools or entire districts, ensuring that schools are running efficiently and effectively.
Conclusion
In summary, the public school system in the United States is a collaborative effort involving multiple levels of government and various stakeholders. While the federal government sets broad educational policies and provides some funding, the primary responsibility for running public schools lies with state governments and, most importantly, local school districts. These entities work together to ensure that public schools are meeting the needs of students and providing a quality education that prepares them for success in the future.

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The federal government contributes less than 10 percent of the cost. Whereas public schools are funded and run by local governments, private schools are funded, owned and operated by private organizations--for example, religious institutions.read more >>