Questions that challenge the curriculum can put educators on the defensive. Lauren Porosoff discusses helpful ways that educators can be proactive about creating productive and meaningful conversations with parents and community members about curriculum choices and the reasons behind them.

Social studies educators in the coming years should concentrate on the humanizing elements of the curriculum to ensure that programs are social and humane. (MM)

The nature of the work for which we educate students is changing. Outlines how schools must help students process knowledge in a rapidly changing world. Schools must incorporate interdisciplinary approaches that teach breadth, values, and a global perspective. (MD)

Describes and assesses six high school reform projects that concern the values underlying secondary schooling; changes in curriculum, instruction, and teacher preparation; preparation of students for college; communication among schools undergoing reform; the condition of secondary education today and proposed solutions to problems; and the…

To address the issue of at-risk students, school systems must reexamine the value structure of schools and determine whether it is still valid. Curriculum developers need to be aware of socioeconomic class variables and develop school environments with a balanced perspective that enhance achievement for all students. (MD)

Defining "theorizing" as the activity preliminary to theory completion, this author explains three kinds of curriculum theorizing--structural, generic, and substantive--and sketches the implications of each for practice. (JM)

Describes the success of an experienced middle school teacher in balancing her professional and personal values with organizational obligations and responsibilites to students. Encourages administrators to support teachers in the construction, evaluation, and revision of the classroom curriculum and to provide more collegial exchange opportunities…