The document discusses the various forces that influence school governance and finance in the United States. It outlines the key stakeholders in education, including political interest groups, businesses, teachers' organizations, and parents/students. It also describes the roles of federal, state, and local governments in establishing policies and providing funding for K-12 education. Specifically, it discusses how schools are governed at the state level by boards of education and departments of education, and at the local level by school districts, local boards, superintendents, and principals. The document also examines the sources of funding for public schools, including support from federal, state, and local governments as well as private organizations.