Dive Brief:
- As Congress debates changes to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, the National Governors Association and National Conference of State Legislatures have created proposals for how the revised bill could give them more control in how their states meet its requirements.
- Utah is one of six states where governors hold much less power when it comes to education. Utah's education adviser, Tami Pyfer, will be speaking with the state Board of Education today to advocate on behalf of Gov. Gary Herbert for more control.
- The state Board of Education typically holds the key in terms of education decision making, and Pyfer's argument will focus on a collaborative effort between Herbert and the Board.
Dive Insight:
In pushing for more of a partnership between Herbert and the Board, Pyfer has a tough battle ahead. Dave Thomas, first vice chairman of the Utah state Board of Education, says he is not comfortable with the proposed changes, saying they are "trying to insert something that goes directly contrary to the Utah Constitution."