The Scottish Government will not end up running schools as a result of the review of governance, the Education Secretary has said.
Proposed changes include headteachers being handed new powers and those in the most deprived areas given direct funding from the Scottish Government to reduce the attainment gap.
The Government is consulting on the review, which would move more control over decision and funding from councils to schools.
Education Secretary John Swinney told the annual School Leaders Scotland conference that the review will not mean the Government runs schools, and he said headteachers will be supported to cope with extra responsibilities.
Following the speech, Mr Swinney said: "Let me be clear: this is not a discussion about whether central government or councils are going to run schools. I can state unreservedly that the Scottish Government will not end up running schools as a result of this process.
"Nor do I have plans to turn headteachers into bureaucrats or accountants. What I will do is ensure that all the support necessary is available so that headteachers have the skill and confidence to grasp the opportunities change like this can bring.
"That is why I want to hear the views from teachers and headteachers - as well as children, young people and their parents - as part of the positive debate about how schools should be run that is taking place across Scotland."
He added: "My relentless focus is on how to close the attainment gap and deliver excellence and equity in our schools.
"Our governance review is about getting education right for every child. Teachers and parents will be the key decision-makers in the life of the school because an empowered school with engaged parents leads to better education."
The consultation closes on January 6.
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