Priority 3: Importance of Local Control

Ephrata School Board Statement:

 

The Ephrata School District Board of Directors believes that decisions impacting students, schools and communities are most effectively made at the local level. Local school boards are elected by and accountable to the communities they serve, and are best positioned to understand and respond to the unique needs, values and priorities of their students and families.

While we acknowledge our responsibility to follow state and federal laws, we are increasingly concerned about mandates and policies that diminish the ability of locally elected boards to govern effectively. One-size-fits all approaches can unintentionally overlook the diverse circumstances and challenges faced by individuals school districts.

For this reason, preserving and strengthening local control will be a legislative priority for the Ephrata School District. We will advocate for policies that allow school districts to make informed decisions on behalf of their communities - whether related to curriculum, staffing, budgeting, student support services or school operations.

We are committed to working collaboratively with state leaders and agencies, but we will continue to advocate for the flexibility and authority needed to serve our students well. Local control is not just a governance preference - it is a core principle of public education that ensures schools remain responsive, accountable and attuned to the voices of the people they serve.