The term “Local Educational Agency” (LEA) is defined in both federal law and regulations to describe entities responsible for overseeing and managing public education at the local level. This term is important in various educational contexts, such as funding, regulation, and administration of public schools.
Definition Under 20 U.S.C. § 7801(26)(A)
According to 20 U.S.C. § 7801(26)(A), a Local Educational Agency refers to any public board of education or other public authority that is legally established within a state.
This entity has the responsibility to either control or direct the administrative functions or provide services for public elementary and secondary schools. This can include:
- A city, county, township, school district, or any other political subdivision of a state.
- A combination of school districts or counties recognized by the state as an administrative body for public education.
In short, it includes any government organization involved in managing or offering services to schools within a state’s public education system.
Definition Under 34 CFR 77.1 (c)
The 34 CFR 77.1 (c) regulation provides a more detailed description of what constitutes a Local Educational Agency. It expands on the definition by noting that an LEA includes:
- Public Board of Education or another public authority that is legally constituted within a state to manage or control public elementary or secondary schools.
- It can include cities, counties, townships, school districts, or any political subdivision of a state, as well as combinations of these entities recognized as an administrative agency for public education.
Furthermore, it also mentions that:
- Vocational education programs (those focusing on skills training and education in specific trades) are included under LEA if they are under the administrative control of such public authorities.
In essence, it defines any institution or agency that controls and directs the management of public elementary and secondary schools as a Local Educational Agency.
Key Takeaways
Both definitions focus on the administrative responsibility of public entities in managing educational services, whether for traditional K-12 schools or vocational programs.
These entities play a crucial role in ensuring that educational services are provided at the local level, serving as the key link between state and local government in the educational system.
The term Local Educational Agency, whether referred to in the context of federal law or department regulations, helps to ensure clarity in how public education is structured and managed at local and regional levels within the United States.
