Get to Know SDCOE

THE ROLE OF COUNTY OFFICES OF EDUCATION 

California has a three-level system of public education, which includes the California Department of Education, county offices of education, and local school districts. Regulations, funding, and policy decisions are generally established at the state level, while the day-to-day delivery of instruction is the responsibility of the more than 1,000 school districts throughout the state. The 58 county offices of education are the intermediate level of the public education system. County offices provide a support infrastructure for local schools and districts. They also fulfill state mandates to register teacher credentials, complete employee background checks, certify school attendance records, and develop countywide programs to serve students with special needs. 

THE ROLE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS 

The San Diego County superintendent of schools, appointed by the County Board of Education, is the chief administrative officer, employer, and developer of programs and services as authorized by state statute or determined by needs or requests. The superintendent also provides educational leadership and administers mandated services. The superintendent has direct oversight responsibilities for approving and assuring school district budgets, calling school district elections, and assisting with school district emergencies by providing necessary services. The superintendent is also tasked with developing a three-year Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) for the schools operated by the County Office, and reviewing and approving the LCAPs for all school districts in San Diego County. 

THE ROLE OF THE SAN DIEGO COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION 

The County Board of Education operates under the authority of the California Constitution, the state Legislature, California Education Code, and the State Board of Education. Among other duties, the board is responsible for: 

• Adopting the annual County Office of Education Local Control and Accountability Plan and budget 
• Adopting policies governing the operation of the board 
• Acting as the appeals board for student expulsions, interdistrict transfers, and charter school petitions 
• Acting as the County Committee on School District Organization to review and approve proposals to change the way school district governing board members are elected 
• Hiring and evaluating the county superintendent and establishing the rate of compensation 
• Serving as the landlord and owner of property 

Through its role of long-range policy development and other critical functions, the board works with the county superintendent of schools to offer the most effective education programs and district support services. The board also encourages the involvement of families and communities, and is a vehicle for resident access to communicate about SDCOE’s programs and services.