Public Agenda's national surveys over the past six years depict an American public angered by the state of public education. Many see the schools as mirroring the moral decay that infects society. The public feels the schools are no longer theirs, that they have been captured by teachers, reformers, unions, or others. Unless educators address…

The loss of public confidence in the schools can be countered through carefully thought-out programs of individual and group action. (Author)

Nowadays, teacher and administrator evaluations are being linked to retention and dismissal suggestions. School districts should involve teachers and administrators in developing a fair system of evaluation, carry it out as planned, and make sure it is visible and accepted. (Author/JM)