This treatment of State governance models is one of two major reports prepared by the Educational Governance Project. In addition, there are twelve case study reports, each devoted to policymaking for the public schools in a particular State. This report is designed to serve as a point of beginning for any person or group of persons in a State where the structure of State governance is thought to require reexamination. The authors first attempt to picture the current arrangements for the State governance of education, particularly as found in the State education agency; and then three classes of models, seven models in all, are explicated. Options that may be applied to one or more models are described, and the preferences of a wide range of persons who have participated in the State governance of education are shown. Finally, the document suggests some rather specific takeoff points for those who would restructure the governance arrangements for public education in their own States. (Author/JF)