In Connecticut, the state department of education participates in the preparation of two reports--both required by statute--on department activities. This paper describes how the form and substance of these reports have evolved into a mechanism that facilitates the planning, management, and evaluation of departmental programs. A mandated reporting…

Each year, school districts in every state are required to file various financial reporting forms with their state education agency. Although these documents are often viewed more as a nuisance than a useful planning tool, they represent a wealth of information rarely exploited to full advantage by state or local policy makers. The research…