The National PTA opposes the use of corporal punishment in schools. Several states and foreign countries have banned this form of discipline, and studies show it to be ineffective. Alternative methods of controlling student behaviors are suggested. (IAH)

This article outlines the guidelines which the National PTA (NPTA) has proposed on the issue of parental choice. The crucial question for NPTA is the effect that any parental choice plan will have on all children, not just individual children. Also briefly outlined are alternative education programs under consideration. (IAH)

Although tests can be a useful factor in evaluating student progress and designing effective educational programs, they can be poorly designed and the results used inappropriately. The National PTA's position on standardized testing is outlined, and concerns related to testing are discussed. (IAH)

This article stresses the importance of local PTA involving all parents in their programs, especially parents from minority groups. This article includes a checklist for rating local PTA. Also included is a brief case study of one PTA's successful efforts to increase the ethnic and language diversity of its membership. (IAH)

The National PTA holds the position that religion should be dealt with in public schools in an academic, not a devotional way. This article discusses the implications of Supreme Court decisions on religion in the schools and appropriate ways of including religion in the school curriculum. (IAH)

Two proposals which have emerged from the educational reform movement, tuition tax credits and educational vouchers, are stauchly opposed by the National PTA. These proposals are described, the PTA's resistance to them is explained, and the organization's view of the role of public education is briefly discussed. (IAH)

This article discusses the involvement of the National PTA in bringing about comprehensive school health programs in three areas: health education, health services, and school safety. A synopsis is included of selected resolutions related to school health issues that have been adopted by the National PTA. (IAH)