Discusses implications (in general and, specifically, on education), of the rapid demographic changes that are transforming the racial, regional, and age characteristics of the nation's population. Considers urban policy issues generated by these demographic trends. (GC)

This paper is part of a larger project comparing civic capacity and urban education in 11 American cities. The paper is divided into four sections. The first section attempts to explain why civic capacity and public education in Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania), Boston (Massachusetts), and St. Louis (Missouri), evolved from different paths, although they…

A detailed regional profile that compares rural and urban populations of seven North Central states (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin) is presented in this report. Following an overview of the report, sources, and definitions, the next eight sections discuss the region as a whole and each of the seven states by…

A demographic, economic, and educational profile of South Carolina is provided in this report. Findings indicate that the state is characterized by a sharp contrast between metropolitan development and rural poverty, advancement in educational improvement, and economic growth. The 1984 Educational Improvement Act was found to have made little…

A demographic, economic, and educational profile of southern California is provided in this report. A review of population, economic, and educational trends indicates that the region is characterized by a diverse economy, population, and work force; the growth of "edge cities"; pressing environmental and social problems; and increasing…

Written by a team of teachers as part of a teacher workshop training program, this sketch of East Detroit describes its population growth, economic development, and educational services. As part of the same teacher workshop, another team of teachers conducted a telephone survey to determine the ethnic composition of the East Detroit school…

Considers the state of the urban public education system in Chicago (Illinois). Addresses the effects of demographic and economic changes, the role of Benjamin Coppage Willis as superintendent of the Chicago schools, and the effects of inequality and plans for desegregation. (CMK)

Urban school desegregation can be achieved through more sensible housing policies. Review of the current situation shows that some States (New York, Illinois, Michigan, Massachusetts, Maryland, and Minnesota, for example) have been able to integrate their schools by fostering the development of low and moderate income housing in particular urban…

The 60-year effort to desegregate Philadelphia (Pennsylvania) public schools has not succeeded. Despite a 1977 State court order to desegregate and the implementation of the Modified School Desegregation Plan, Black and minority group students still encounter discrimination, unfairness, and abuse in Philadelphia schools, and the Plan's promises…

This publication offers a portrait of poverty in San Antonio (Texas) based on an analysis of available statistical data and focusing on health, education, employment, housing, and human services. Five chapters each contain statistics regarding poverty in the United States, Texas, and San Antonio. Each chapter also begins with true stories about…

This case study of the battle over public school education in Lowell (Massachusetts) chronicles the process of change taking place there, partly as a result of the emerging role of Southeast Asian parents who, in coalition with Latino parents, are demanding educational access and equity for their children. The following sections are included: (1)…

This study evaluates characteristics and critical issues facing urban schools in 1992 via a survey of school districts with membership in the Council of Urban Boards of Education and in several eligible districts. Sixty-two urban school districts responded to the survey. Of this total, 47 (68 percent) of the Council's participating districts…

Schools are very sensitive to the rapid social, economic, and demographic changes that the United States is presently undergoing. They are at a disadvantage compared to most other social institutions because, in serving a younger population, they have less lead time to prepare for changes in the complexion of society. Young people in today's world…