Educational policy decisions are political and are affected by demographic, economic, and social factors that influence policy-makers. As the number of federal government programs grew from the 1960's to the 1980's, so did the number of special interest groups lobbying in Washington, District of Columbia, to promote legislation, regulations, and decisions favorable to their clientele. Education is represented by over 100 educational organizations, and the differing orientations of these groups can cause disagreements. Some groups are more political than others and have more influence, such as the National Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers. The formation of coalitions between groups can result in increased influence as this is probably the most effective way for special interest groups to have an impact on policy. One such coalition is the Committee for Education Programs, a coalition of 80 organizations. Other less broadly based coalitions work to enhance certain aid programs and others are spawned by the enactment of the aid programs themselves. The effectiveness of narrow special interest groups is evidenced by the fact most federal aid to education has been designated for specific programs or populations. In 1981 the Educational Consolidation and Improvement Act consolidated many educational aid programs into an education Block Grant and funding for other programs was reduced. However, the political environment is subject to change. Currently, education is high on the national agenda and, in fiscal year 1984, Congress added 1.2 billion dollars to the federal budget for education. (MD)