The author notes that two trends appear to be developing in litigation over the governance of the public schools. One trend is increasing participation of organized groups in suits against the schools. The other is a greater volume of litigation dealing with open meeting laws and freedom of information acts. Reflecting the second trend, the largest section in this chapter deals with the public's right to know. Litigation in this area concerns whether the topics discussed in closed board meetings, "unofficial" meetings, or "working sessions" violate the open meetings laws of the various states. In most states, closed meetings may only be held to discuss personnel matters, student matters, pending litigation, negotiation strategy, and real estate transactions. Other topics examined in the chapter include school district immunity from suits, the limits of the powers and duties of the board, conflict of interest, school district organization, and transportation of students to and from the schools. (Author/IRT)