The department is responsible for the management of elementary, primary and secondary education in the state.

[3][4] Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan programme was launched to ensure the same with the school education department responsible for the implementation in the state.

[6] Public schools are all affiliated with the Tamil Nadu State Board, the curriculum for which is framed by the department.

The directorate is also responsible for financial assistance and the distribution of welfare schemes for school students.

[7] As of 2022[update], there were 3,12,683 teachers in government and aided schools with an average teacher-pupil ratio of 1:26.6.