Adolescent literacy achievement across the United States is in crisis. More than eight million students in grades 4 to 12 are identified as struggling readers. These students, who perform below grade level in reading and writing, are at high risk for failure in all content subjects and ultimately for dropping out of school. Professionals in the…

In response to public demands for better-quality high school graduates and to requirements of No Child Left Behind legislation, states have developed a variety of policies such as high-stakes exit exams and diploma options. Additionally, under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997, students with disabilities must be…

This report contains analyses of key aspects of the scope, quality, and vitality of the Nation's science and engineering enterprise and global science and technology. The report presents information on science, mathematics, and engineering education at all levels; the scientific and engineering workforce; U.S. and international and development…

This biennial report outlines many of the steps taken to improve North Carolina's system of public schools. It also outlines what actions are needed to continue the progress. Although the state has experienced rising SAT scores and a decreasing dropout rate, several challenges remain: decrease class size, provide funds for school facilities,…

Since the passage of the Family Support Act in 1988, states have been pursuing a variety of experiments in welfare policy innovation. This document summarizes state welfare waiver requests reviewed and approved by the Department of Health and Human Services as of September 1995. Included in the document is a list of definitions of waiver provision…

This data book represents a count of children and their well-being in society. It is intended to serve as a reference document, merging into a common format vital records (births and deaths), census information, and administrative data from many sources. The book is also intended to serve as an organized, cohesive and accurate view of how children…

This publication describes Venture Capital grants, which are awarded to Ohio schools for school-improvement efforts. Originating in the business sector, the concept of Venture Capital represented corporate earning or individual savings invested in a new or fresh enterprise. The grants are designed to be long-term, evolving efforts focused on a…

This report describes the model used by the Oregon State System for Higher Education to assess the impact of higher education on the growth and change in students as a result of participation in higher education. The model prescribes assessments of general knowledge and abilities, learning environment, major field knowledge, degree completion,…

This report is the sixth and final report in a series designed to help states, local government, and the voluntary sector, as they respond to the social policy debates and changes precipitated by the 104th Congress through its welfare reform efforts. This final report draws on the lessons the project learned from commissioned papers, six…

This is the eighth edition of "Snapshot," providing information about students, student performance, staffing, and financing in Texas public school districts. This annual summary is a source of information for anyone interested in the Texas public education system. The publication begins with statistical highlights that provide an…

This is the ninth edition of "Snapshot," providing information about students, student performance, staffing, and financing in Texas public school districts. This annual summary is a source of information for anyone interested in the Texas public education system. The publication begins with statistical highlights that provide an…

This report reviews New Jersey educational system from 1992-95, showing the continuation and expansion of the gender equity set-aside programs. The review identifies barriers to female participation in the work force and proposes recommendations to eliminate those barriers and ensure equity and fairness to females who choose to enhance their…

Licensure standards ensure that the best and most promising candidates receive and retain educator licenses and that the training and professional development they experience contribute meaningfully to this end. These standards also assure that educators have the skills and knowledge needed to support students toward attaining high standards. This…

Since 1991, the National Science Foundation (NSF) has signed cooperative agreements with 26 states to undertake ambitious and comprehensive initiatives to reform science, mathematics, and technology education. This effort to improve public education is known as the Statewide Systemic Initiatives (SSI). This brief presents some initial observations…

Intended as a reference for chambers of commerce, physicians, public schools, and other agencies, this directory lists services for families of people with mental retardation or related disabilities in South Carolina. First, the South Carolina Department of Mental Retardation is described, including its service system, organization, case…