It's a common misperception among voters. Even some candidates for municipal office run on platforms that include improved school performance.

But the truth is, town commissioners in Wendell, Knightdale and Zebulon have no official authority to affect change in our schools -- neither locally or countywide.

The Board of Education sets policy for our schools and much has been made this election season about the changes afoot with the school board.

Four new school board members will team with sitting board member Ron Margiotta to try to move away from the county's existing diversity policy in favor of a system that allows students to attend schools close to home.

Town commissioners -- and the voters who elected them -- must realize they have no official say in whether that happens.

That being said, we turn our attention to a much preached sermon on this page and encourage municipal leaders to work together to affect what change they can.

As the school board works to de-diversify the school system, our leaders should work together to speak with one voice when it comes time to advocate on behalf of the children of eastern Wake County.

We have seen repeatedly that officials at one level of government seek out the advice of those at other levels of government. And politicians in higher offices often carry the banner for causes supported by local officials they represent.

Mayors Harold Broadwell, Russell Killen and Bob Matheny should speak often and with one voice to ensure that our new school board member, Chris Malone, supports the needs of students in this region.

As changes take place in our school system county-wide, pressure will build in this region as students try to keep up with students in other parts of the county who enjoy greater financial and parental support. Malone and his fellow board members must recognize this deficiency and work to overcome it.

And our local leaders must make certain those challenges aren't overlooked.