Who Will Lead Our Schools?

The Federal Role vs. Local Control

When most people think about who leads their child’s school, they picture the principal, the teachers, or maybe the local school board. But behind the classroom door, decisions made in Washington—and reinforced by state legislatures—shape almost everything: from how much money flows to districts, to which programs survive, to which students get extra support.

In fact, about 1 in 10 dollars in K–12 education funding comes from the federal government. That may sound small compared to state and local budgets, but those dollars are often the lifeline for the students who need the most help. Title I funds support low-income students, IDEA dollars ensure children with disabilities receive services, and Perkins V invests in career and technical education.

The balance between federal oversight and local control is not just a policy debate. It is a question of who we trust to make decisions about our children’s future.

Why Parents and Communities Should Care

Federal education policy is not distant—it is deeply personal. When Congress changes Title I funding formulas, it can mean fewer reading specialists in elementary schools. When Washington debates special education budgets, it directly affects whether a child receives therapy, tutoring, or assistive technology.

At the same time, local boards and state officials argue they know best what communities need. They worry about federal mandates that tie their hands or impose one-size-fits-all accountability systems.

This tension has existed for decades. But during election season, it becomes critical for parents and voters to press candidates on where they stand.

The Questions to Ask Candidates That Matter

Parents and communities should not settle for vague promises like “I support education.” Instead, ask:

1. With proposals to cut or even eliminate federal programs like Title I, Head Start, and special education funding, where do you believe the federal role in education should stop, and where should states and local boards take the lead?

   
   

2. State takeovers of school districts are growing more common. Do you see your role in Congress as partnering with local communities to improve schools, or directing them from Washington with mandates and restrictions?

   
   

3. When you campaign on education, what exactly is your message about your responsibilities of service to families and children—does it mean defending public schools, expanding vouchers, cutting federal oversight, or something else?

These questions cut through campaign talking points and clarify whether candidates believe in shared responsibility for student success—or in centralizing power at the state or federal level.

Why It Matters Now

With debates raging over school funding, vouchers, curriculum, and accountability, the answer to “who leads our schools” is more important than ever. A candidate’s view of their role and responsibilities of service tells families whether they will fight for equitable funding, defend local decision-making, or pursue policies that could reshape classrooms for decades.

The future of education is service, trust, and accountability. Parents and communities have the right to demand clarity before they cast their vote.