On the November ballot, voters in both Johnson and Wyandotte counties will be electing people to represent them on the Kansas State Board of Education. To inform your decision, we put together some information about the board and the responsibilities of the board.
What does the Kansas State Board of Education (SBOE) do?
SBOE governs the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE). The day-to-day administration of the agency is the responsibility of the commissioner of education, who is appointed by the SBOE and serves as the executive director.
KSDE provides leadership, resources, support and accountability to the state’s K-12 education system. It administers the state’s governance of education, standards and assessments, special education services, child nutrition and wellness, title programs and services, career and technical education, and financial aid.
What does the board hope to accomplish?
The stated goal of the KSDE is to provide all Kansas children with equal access to a quality, high-level education that promotes student achievement and prepares all students for global success.
The SBOE’s mission statement is: “We are an agency of Kansans serving Kansans by inspiring, coaching, and leading to create the conditions for each student's success.”
What does the board of education value as a government agency?
SBOE’s value statement is: “Commitment to our purpose. Service to others. Respect for self and others. Continual improvement through learning.”
What is the structure within the agency?
The department of education consists of the commissioner’s office and two major divisions: fiscal and administrative services, and learning services. Each of the divisions is overseen by a deputy commissioner. The education commissioner has ultimate responsibility for the entire agency and directly oversees those agency functions that provide services to the entire agency, including legal services and human resources. The commissioner and deputy commissioner share the responsibility for overseeing the communications and recognition programs. The Office of the Commissioner provides leadership to schools and the State Board of Education in complying with all state and federal laws, regulations and requirements.
How many people serve on the board?
Ten people are elected to the board. Each board member represents a district comprised of four contiguous senatorial districts.
How long do board members serve?
Board members serve four-year terms with an overlapping schedule.
Where can I find more information about the current issues facing the SBOE?
Previous meeting agendas and minutes are available to the public on the department of education’s website.
Source: Kansas State Department of Education