Argues for the value of high-quality minimum competency testing (MCT) programs in efforts to restore honesty to public school promotion practices. Lists the seven characteristics of a good program and discusses the effects of MCT on students, on curriculum and teaching, and on public perceptions of schooling. (Author/WD)

Advantages and disadvantages of five policy approaches are examined regarding graduation requirements for handicapped students: pass/fail, certificate of attendance, the individualized education program, special education diplomas, and specialized curriculum approaches. (CL)

Analyzes different responses that most seniors demonstrate during the college application process. The symptoms and major responses of "senioritis" are discussed in this article. Recommendations are made for dealing with this syndrome. (Author)

The author, whose book "The Diploma Disease" was recently published, deplores the "qualification escalation" bedevilling educational institutions. (Editor/RK)

Puts the case for compulsory study-service for students in higher education. (Editor)

In 1996, Oregon State University had the highest athlete graduation rate in the country, at 95%. Neither faculty nor alumni are impressed with the rate because the athletic teams are not performing well. The athletic director is committed to improving athletics while recruiting bright athletes and rigorously maintaining academic standards. (MSE)

Investigates determinants of football player graduation rates at two National Collegiate Athletic Association division levels. At the major level (NCAA Division I-A), football success appears to substitute for classroom success. At the NCAA Division I-AA level, there is no relationship between football success and academic success. A playoff…

Assessed whether the Student Diversity Program (SDP) at Cal State Fullerton increased retention, examining graduation rates and ending grade point averages (GPAs) of students and matched controls in four cohorts. Found that SDP students graduated at twice the rate of comparable students after 5 years, although GPAs were not different. (EV)

Argues that under certain conditions, high standards and demanding assessment can hurt rather than help low-achieving students. Discusses three practices educators and policymakers should avoid: requiring students to repeat a grade, placing students in low-track classes, and holding students accountable for material not yet taught. (Contains 13…

California's "History-Social Science Framework" adopted by the State Board of Education in 1987 is similar to the report by the National Commission on Social Studies in the Schools in emphasizing the central role of history in the social sciences. (MLF)

Vocational education is in trouble because of three factors: declining high school enrollments, increased graduation requirements, and students' growing preference for pursuing higher education. The opportunity to reform high school vocational education offered by the new Perkins amendments will be wasted if left in the hands of vocational…

In the wake of New York State's action plan to raise graduation standards, New York City's public schools have struggled to meet the new mandates and still provide adequate remedial services to students who need them. Offering alternative crediting through independent and group work is proving successful. (MLH)

Underscores the importance of student goal identification and student tracking for both the community college and its students. Reviews research findings indicating that large proportions of community college students are confused about their educational goals. Highlights methods used to help clarify their goals and monitor their progress toward…

Student journalism is struggling to survive due to demanding high school graduation requirements, stricter college admission standards, and skeptical state departments of education. For student journalism to survive and prosper, education agencies, college officials, and journalism teachers must cooperate and receive strong support from the…

Washington is one of several states adopting the Certificate of Initial Mastery, certifying that high school students have attained a high standard of achievement in core academic subjects and applied learning. The New Standards Partnership, comprising 17 member states and 6 school districts, has been developing the certificate system. State…