Three decades after massive government commitment to financial aid, minority and low income access is declining and aid going to middle class students. Policies and political deadlock have worsened the situation of those in need, and hard choices must be made if college access is to be restored without greater expenditures. (SK)

Contends that educational policy during the Reagan Administration has been characterized by restrictive attempts to reconcile cultural diversity with traditional values, while reducing federal support to public schools. Argues that a democratic education must extend excellence and equity to all citizens. (FMW)

The task of designing future postsecondary education policy in fiscal year 1981 is discussed in relation to two unique conditions. First, the federal role as a provider of student assistance was increased dramatically in 1978 by passage of the Middle Income Student Assistance Act, and the full costs of implementing MISAA are coming due. Second,…