This book looks at the issue of the transfer of power from the local (district and school) level to the state and national levels. It traces the origins of the process, examines the implications, and considers where these changes might lead. More specifically, the book explores the direction of education policy and the way in which both policymakers and educators can adapt and provide leadership in a time of change; provides a summary of a number of specific programs and policies; presents an outline of actions that can be taken at the local, state, and national levels to help facilitate better working relationships and to help improve schools; and examines the new federal role and some recent federal legislation, including the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. Among the topics in the book are the following: the increasing federal influence; the new federal-state relationship; statewide systemic reforms; how schools process reforms; K-16 alignment; the new role of states boards of education; transforming departments of education; and changes at the district and school levels. (Contains a subject index and extensive reference list.) (WFA)