Intermediate School Districts and Educational Service Agencies: Role, Power, and Mission

ISDs were created by the Legislature in 1962 to bring about quality and equitable educational opportunities to students and schools throughout the state. ISDs accomplish this mission in a number of ways, namely by:
1. Creating and promoting economies of scale
2. Sharing current and credible research, best practices, and innovation.
3. Providing oversight and liaison roles

Over the course of the past decade, the unique roles of Intermediate School Districts have adapted to include the realities of increased calls for educational accountability and choice. For example, ISDs are assuming an active role in helping member districts understand, comply, and implement the standards required of the complex federal No Child Left Behind law and the state accreditation system. Currently, ISDs are being called upon to provide technical assistance to schools, much as they have done in the area of school improvement.

By building and sustaining local partnerships and sharing credible research into the importance of early childhood care and education, ISDs have been leaders throughout the state in this area.

By working with work development boards and business and industry, ISDs help promote growing economies and stable communities.