The purpose of this paper is to explore the idea of how various interests representing public education can be brought into a collaborative alliance. Within this paper, a rationale for a collaborative alliance is analyzed by exploring the degree to which the implications of federal and state regulations and mandates have restricted the creativity and flexibility of public education. The paper explores, first, the implications for educaton by reviewing national and state trends and the education profession's role; second, who is qualified to speak for education and what are the common issues in public education; third, a rationale for cooperation and an alliance; fourth, the role of higher education; and fifth, the role of the Southern Regional Council on Educational Administration. Ten references are included. (SI)