Pressure Groups and the Politics of Education

Local governance of education is based on recognizing and protecting the rights of minorities while attempting to meet the needs of all. Legally, various courts across the country have upheld the rights of school officials to make choices regarding curriculum textbooks, library books, and general subject matter. Board policy should include the following: (1) an up-to-date policy on selection of curriculum and materials including a citizen advisory committee; (2) a period of written public comment on the proposed curriculum with materials available for public viewing; (3) a policy regarding complaints and/or reconsideration of existing curricula or instructional materials; and (4) enforcement of procedural rules at public board meetings. The political response to pressure groups is to identify the challenge by researching the challenging organization's tactics carefully and to designate a representative to field all questions on the subject under debate. The School District of Oconee County in Walhalla, South Carolina, provides a practical example of preparation and planning. Following public discussion of the issues, the school board initiated a citizens committee that utilized a 10-step review procedure. Appended is a list of five organizations that can help school boards meet the challenge. (MLF)