This paper provides an overview of the changing framework of governance of elementary education and community participation in India, especially the new emphasis put on improving the participation of children. It examines the current extent of involvement of grassroots level stakeholders and local bodies in decision-making processes. Drawing references from recent efforts made by different states in regards to local governance, the paper tries to establish a link between effectiveness of local governance and issues such as access, equity and quality of school education. It finds that devolution of power and functions at the local level in most cases are far from complete and thus have resulted in weak community participation. However, it was observed that generally, states which have adopted more community and local representation demonstrate better access and retention rates for children. [IIEP]