This comparative analysis was derived from 12 case study reports, each devoted to policymaking for the public schools in a particular State. The nine chapters were prepared by a number of persons involved in the case studies. First, the framework and methodology used in the study are explained. Next, the authors discuss the major actors in the 12-State education policy systems--State boards of education, the chief State school officer, State department of education personnel, governors and governors' offices, and leaders of education interest groups. In a subsequent section, the focus is on the politics of school finance reform in four States where governors and legislative leaders apparently play major roles. The report concludes with an interpretive treatment of State education policy systems and a set of recommendations. (Author/JF)