The three participants in educational policy-making include public representatives, professional educators, and the general public. Although public representatives are underpaid and under pressure, they are often criticized for ignoring public opinion and delegating too much power to superintendents. Professional educators have been blamed for lack of citizen involvement in the schools. Lay participation in educational policy-making is now growing. Teachers and schools are now increasingly under attack by the public. Two national associations have been formed to aid the public in their participation in school policy-making, although it is unlikely these groups will yield great influence unless they change structure and focus. Citizen involvement has been furthered by federal requirements, politicians, and community education programs. (Author/JM)