This report, drawing on a wide variety of public opinion data, is the first to compare public perceptions of K-12 and higher education. Differences in perceptions are discussed in seven categories: (1) knowledge of the systems; (2) perceptions of their quality; (3) assignment of responsibility between students and the institutions; (4) who pays…

Educators in intentionally small schools in Chicago are working to create a climate that is inviting, engaging, and challenging to some of the most academically disadvantaged students. Over a period of 18 months, data were collected from eight intentionally small schools that included elementary, middle, and high schools; freestanding schools;…

Standards-based reform and the demand for accountability and higher student achievement over the past decade have created challenges for school boards. Should boards continue their historical low-key, hands-off approach to student learning? Or should they take on a leadership role by capitalizing on their traditional responsibility as local…

This volume theorizes, describes, and explains practices and some specific programs designed to help meet the needs and demands of a diverse student population. The central point of this volume is that curriculum, instruction, and assessment in middle-level education is a dynamic, interrelated system undergoing change. The book contains the…

This policy analysis presents the "new-school" finance, one that, in contrast to most discussions about funding that have concentrated on spending patterns only, asks how resources are used within schools and classrooms, and whether they are used in ways that can enhance educational outcomes. The analysis, directed toward policymakers…

Buffalo Creek Elementary School in Houston, Texas, has been recognized for its success in serving its students--approximately 600 low-income Hispanic children in grades preK-5. A study of the school, which sought to develop a detailed picture of school effectiveness, identified 33 indicators of success. Each of these indicators is briefly…

Examines the Boston University/Chelsea project and explores how privatization intrinsically results in decreased openness and accountability. Discusses the historical background of Boston (MA) and its schools to decipher Chelsea's economic dependency, and repeated the falls into receivership and privatization. Includes a discussion on Boston's…

Case study of a poor, rural Pennsylvania school district's experience with the Reading First initiative illustrates how the No Child Left Behind Act confines districts to a few federally prescribed, "scientifically proven" curricula that ignore local conditions. Sanctioned schools are negatively labeled but receive inadequate funding,…

There is a "gaping separation" in academic achievement between minority group children and White children. Research shows that minority group children can achieve when the following issues are addressed: high expectations geared to clear standards, timely intervention for struggling students, excellent teachers with good ethnic…

A Portland (Oregon) elementary school, formerly designated a local "crisis school," has improved academic achievement through a combination of Total Quality Management, high expectations, and tough love. Quarterly assessments enable staff to keep track of each student and guide instructional decisions. Small classes, on-site professional…

At a Spokane (Washington) elementary school, ethnically diverse students perform well even though most come from difficult, low-income family environments. High expectations, student behavioral "self-management," a supportive environment, and teacher collaboration are key to this success. Multiple approaches to teaching cater to…

Cross-sectional data are presented on the relation between school achievement and measures of school environment (particularly effective schools characteristics) for 38 high schools, 32 middle schools, and 134 elementary schools in the Milwaukee metropolitan area. School environment was assessed through a survey of 5,500 teachers. (SLD)

Examines shared education perceptions regarding school effectiveness; expansion, operation, resources, test scores, and the role of schools in education. Questions traditional beliefs regarding school size and educational quality. Introduces new ideas created by innovation and reform. Examines rural education, employment and economic development…

Highlights the importance of student effort in the high school experience. Discusses current educational expectations from the perspectives of parents, students, teachers, and society as a whole. Points to a national tendency to emphasize innate ability over achievement and lax college entrance standards as contributing to current social patterns.…

Responses from a national survey (Education in the Middle Grades) from 1,753 principals in schools teaching grade 7 highlight the effects of the following practices believed to be responsive to adolescent needs: (1) interdisciplinary teacher teams; (2) group advisory periods; (3) remedial instruction programs; and (4) school transition programs.…