The program budget is seen as usually measuring the cost of resources used in a program, but it is suggested that it should be extended to measure and evaluate program quality. Types of budgets, building a budget, politics of budgeting, and budgeting for quality are discussed. (Author/MLW)

Flexible budgeting can help coordinate and harmonize scarce financial resources in adult education. Budgets can be used as quantitative tools to manage instructional salaries, facilities, supplies, or other program support. (SK)

Argues that the present structure of federal programs for elementary and secondary education is unwieldy and does too little to promote access and quality. Several broad directions for reform are outlined, including coordination at the local school level, but the idea of major program consolidation is rejected. (Author/DB)

The Chapter 1 program of the Educational Consolidation and Improvement Act would be made more efficient and effective by implementing the following recommendations: (1) improve the targeting of funds; (2) let good educational practice rather than accounting practice shape Chapter 1 programs; (3) establish systems of output accountability for…

A shrinkage of one-half or more in available federal funds designated for human services is expected to occur in the next five years. Despite this outlook, federal funds are available for increases in human services, provided that such services are organized into related systems of services and are planned and managed as such. This essay on…