Examines three theses that attempt to explain the rise of concentrated poverty and the growth of racial inequality in urban areas. Census data from 1970 and 1980 for Detroit (Michigan) provide the most support for the idea that economic decline and uneven economic growth are responsible. (SLD)

Based on data on 8,203 high school graduates from the national High School and Beyond study, it was found that socioeconomically disadvantaged graduates have pursued nontraditional postsecondary enrollment options (part-time, delayed, and nondegree programs), even when data were controlled for differing academic characteristics. Theoretical,…

Reviews some of the possible causes for the current crisis among African-American males, including a crisis of faith in education and problems with public schools. Discusses possible strategies for improvement: whole community response, successful programs, renewed faith in education, and national forums. (JB)

Empirical evidence from a study of 15 male and 12 female abused, neglected, troubled, or homeless adolescents in a St. Louis (Missouri) shelter indicates greater hostility and depression and lower self-esteem for these subjects than for those in comparative studies of the 3 measures (hostility, depression, and self-esteem) used. (SLD)

Reviews evidence on institutional, cultural, and family background variables linked to the academic achievement of Mexican American students in elementary, secondary, and higher education. Considers educational policy implications for Mexican Americans. Segregation of Mexican Americans exists at all levels of education but is particularly apparent…

Describes the first phase of the Urban Opportunity Program, which has studied the choices that determine lifetime opportunity for the poor and changes in the performance of urban markets and institutions that have historically supported opportunity. Characteristics of U.S. cities and future directions for the program are discussed. (SLD)

Argues that increasing welfare dependence and family breakdown among the poor are not the result of the Great Society social programs but were set to occur before any Great Society policies. Issues long ignored must be faced if today's social problems are to be solved. (SLD)

Disadvantaged children's problems receive little if no attention by intellectuals and policymakers because of broad forces such as racial conflict, feminism, and the culture of individual rights. Personal responsibility and social and economic policies that support the family are strategies for helping economically, educationally, and emotionally…

Widespread efforts by colleges and universities to reduce expenses and raise revenues can increase the institution's exposure to risk. Common risks arise from neglect of physical plant, government regulation, financial burdens, campus security and crime, sexual harassment, third-party contracts, staff reduction, failure to educate, and…

Transcript data were analyzed to determine changes in course taking among graduates of high schools including mostly lower achieving students in California, Florida, Missouri, and Pennsylvania, which adopted high graduation requirements in the 1980s. Average credits per student increased in all academic subjects, as did the courses' difficulty…

Analyzes why the current complex of social institutions and systems does not effectively serve poor children, highlighting the lack of early or preventative help for families and inappropriate organizational structure. Offers a series of five principles for a new foundation based on prevention, comprehensiveness, continuity, and accountability.…

Describes the Decker Family Development Center (DFDC) in Barberton (Ohio), while relating the difference that the DFDC's services has made to one poor family. Recounts the DFDC's establishment, funding, and current services (adult education, counseling for parents and children, and several types of child care services). (JB)

Describes Public School 146, a public elementary school in New York City where the principal has created a school community that builds on the strengths of the parents and makes the school an extended family for each child. Describes special services, a student leadership program, and student achievement gains. (JB)

This article extends the ideas of social support systems to giftedness and disadvantagement, and presents examples of two intervention programs for talented, economically disadvantaged children--the Epstein Fine Arts Fund, and SMART (Science and Mathematics Advocacy and Recruitment for Teaching), both in Chicago, Illinois. A research agenda is…

A clinical progress report is presented concerning how the infants and children of Harlem (New York City) have endured the past six years. Crack abuse, acquired immune deficiency syndrome, social disorganization, and violence have been added to the traditional concomitants of poverty. Proposals are made for improvement. (SLD)