This committee report represents almost a year of study of the various issues relating to the structure and organization of the constitutionally mandated board of education in Illinois. The committee's 31 recommendations are based on solicited expert testimony and a series of background and position papers. In addition, a highly detailed questionnaire, distributed to more than 50 organizations or individuals known to have an interest in the subject, was a resource. A list of resources appears in the appendix. Following the introduction is a summary of recommendations and a historical summary of educational governance in Illinois. The remainder of the report separates the recommendations into subject sections and presents the committee's rationale in making the recommendations. The sections are scope of authority; powers and duties; chief state educational officer, state department of education, and staff services; selection of state board members; and mechanics of operation and procedural issues. (Author/MLF)