At what level is program equity defined within the education system?

Program equity in the education system is defined at the state-wide level because it encompasses the distribution of resources, opportunities, and educational quality across various districts within a state. This level allows for the establishment of policies and frameworks to ensure that all students have access to a fair and adequate education, regardless of their geographic location or socioeconomic status. State governments have the authority to allocate funding, set educational standards, and implement programs that promote equity among different districts, ultimately aiming to mitigate disparities and improve educational outcomes for all students in the state.

While school-wide, district-wide, and national levels are also important in addressing issues of equity, they each operate within the broader guidelines and regulations established by the state. Therefore, the state-wide level is crucial in formulating comprehensive strategies that affect program equity across the entire education system.