The newly authorized Chapter 1 contains specific provisions for state and local agencies related to improving program quality. A review of state standards since 1989-90 shows that states use minimum standards to identify schools needing improvement and that program improvement requirements have generally failed to stimulate high student…

Chapter 1 aims will not be achieved until disadvantaged youngsters are succeeding in the regular program and exhibiting grade-level proficiency. To succeed, Chapter 1 programs must be coordinated with regular instruction, emphasize more than basic skills, and abandon low learning expectations and stereotyped notions of poor and minority students.…