Policy Research

Seeking Accountability through State-Appointed Emergency District Management

David Arsen, Mary Mason

Summary

The article clarifies the roles of the Emergency Manager for Public Schools brought about in Public Act 4. It argues that under this act, schools are held less responsible both academically and financially, mostly because of the unilateral fashion the EM is allowed to function within. It continues that the EM law contains no metric for making sure schools perform well.

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Policy Implications

This article can be used to help design a more accountable emergency manager law. It suggests considering provisions that could give failing schools under emergency management a form of academic accountability. It also suggests re-evaluating the level of control the EM has, and finding potential options for increased public input.