Government Roles in Public Education
The federal government has a limited role in policy and funding for public education. Because of the Tenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, most education policy is decided at the state and local levels.
State governments have a large role in public education. With its responsibility outlined in the state constitution, South Carolina state government has a major policy role and is the largest funder of public schools in the state.
Our local school district, Greenville County Schools, has an important role in policy and funding affecting our public schools.
FEDERAL
U.S. CONGRESS
U.S. Congress is the legislative entity that passes laws and approves federal funding for education.
Federal laws affecting education are developed by the House Education & Labor Committee and the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.
Federal funding for education goes through the House Appropriations Committee and the Senate Appropriations Committee.
U.S. DEPT. OF EDUCATION
The U.S. Department of Education is the administrative agency that implements federal laws and directs the use of approved funding.
It is overseen by the Secretary of Education, who is nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The position is currently held by Linda McMahon (confirmed in 2025).
The department oversees major activities using the federal laws that direct these activities. In addition the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture provides funding for the National School Breakfast and Lunch program.
STATE
S.C. LEGISLATURE
The South Carolina Legislature is the entity that passes laws and approves state funding for education.
State laws affecting education are developed by the House Education & Public Works Committee and the Senate Education Committee.
State funding for education goes through the House Ways and Means Committee and the Senate Finance Committee.
S.C. DEPT. OF EDUCATION
The S.C. Department of Education is the administrative agency that implements state laws and directs the use of approved funding.
The agency employs over 930 employees, about 50% of whom work in school bus maintenance. It is overseen by the State Superintendent of Education, a statewide elected position with a 4-year term. The position is currently held by Ellen Weaver, who was elected in 2022.
The department oversees a number of duties and responsibilities.
EDUCATION OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
The Education Oversight Committee (EOC) comprises 17 members appointed by legislators & the Governor. The State Superintendent of Education is an ex-officio member. The EOC has several mandated duties and responsibilities.
STATE BOARD
OF EDUCATION
The State Board of Education is made up of 17 appointed members, with 16 appointed by legislators and 1 by the Governor. The Board has mandated responsibilities as the policy-making body for public education in South Carolina.
LOCAL
GCS BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Board of Trustees of Greenville County Schools is composed of 12 elected members who provide governance of policies and resources.
The school board enacts policies that govern the operation of the school district.
The school board approves annual budgets and school district property tax millage rates.
GCS SCHOOL DISTRICT
The Greenville County School District educates over 76,000 students. It has over 11,000 employees, of which 60% are teachers and teacher aides.
Greenville County Schools is overseen by the District Superintendent. This position is appointed by the Board of Trustees and is currently held by Dr. W. Burke Royster, who was appointed in 2012.
Administers federal, state and school board regulations, policies and funding across 101 school and centers. Hires and manages school leadership. Enacts other measures to attain high quality teaching and student educational experiences.
