EMAC plays a vital role in the accountability system for school districts in the Commonwealth. It has a number of functions including the selection of districts, approval of standards, and review of district reports. The findings of this board are reported to the Governor, Legislature, and the public.

EMAC members are appointed by the Governor for four-year terms. These terms are staggered and each year one member joins EMAC to replace an exiting board member.

The EQA is governed by the EMAC. This governance structure allows the EQA, while part of the Department of Education, to be independent and not subject to its control.

The EMAC board convenes on an as needed basis in Boston and Hopkinton.