The most serious problem affecting education is the poor opinion in which it is held by the public. The uncertain nature of the school's mission, fragmented leadership, and citizen isolation are among the reasons for negative reactions. A shared decision-making process with greater citizen involvement is imperative if schools are to truly regain public respect. Parents, citizens, and students must be included in the process as true partners with the professionals. There must also be a formal mechanism which provides genuine authority for the school council to make decisions affecting the school. School boards and superintendents must delegate a significant portion of their perceived and real prerogatives to that council and devise carefully drawn but not oppressive limits to its authority. (SAS)