The Fuentes case demonstrated how the community's rights could be subverted by a purposeful faction; the Canarsie case showed how unchecked local control could damage children's rights. Successful decentralization requires the central board to assert its authority to prevent the arbitrary exercise of local power. (EH)

Questions the rationale for and possible consequences of political decentralization of New York City. Suggests that the disadvantages--reduced level of professionalism, increased expense in multiple government operation, "stabilization" of residential segregation, necessity for budget negotiations because of public disclosure of tax…

The 15-year effort to decentralize New York City public schools and thereby implement basic changes in the school system is briefly sketched in this study. The structure of the school system, powers of local boards, central board, and chancellor, school board elections, keeping the public informed, educational impact, and effect on truancy and…