The participants in this conference were in virtual agreement that improvement in urban public education is largely dependent on economic and racial equity and that schools, colleges, and businesses must unite through collaborative projects to ensure this improvement. Papers presented were the following: (1) Businessman: "Private Sector…

This review explores the debate on optimal school size and discusses policy options available to states for expanding curricular offerings in small rural schools. Policy options are divided into three broad categories: traditional, modified traditional, and nontraditional. The report explores the possibilities available under each approach,…

This paper examines trends that are currently reshaping rural America and rural education. It reviews the debate about how best to improve rural school districts, suggesting that what is needed is a better understanding of the changing context in which this country's public school enterprise is taking place. The paper begins by reviewing the work…

This report describes the ways in which the business and education communities in Florida can work together (and with the government) to develop productive linkages in education and economic development and to plan for industry's training needs. The report is based on meetings, surveys, and interviews conducted by the Florida Education and…

An elementary school principal implemented a practicum to improve school-home communication at a school where administrators believed that a history of poor communication between parents and teachers negatively influenced the school's academic and parent involvement programs. Specific practicum goals were to improve: (1) school-home communication…

This study of at-risk youth and children highlights the states' interest in this problem, sparked by changing demographies, new state educational reform policies, the concerns of business and industry, and increasing national awareness. The nature of at-risk youth is examined and the obstacles to meeting their needs are discussed. Findings are…

With technology constantly changing, educators are challenged to integrate technology education into the curriculum. In an effort to integrate a study of technology into the public school curriculum, educators at the University of Idaho identified the following areas as representative of modern technology literacy: computers and computer-aided…

Based on the philosophical statements and directions developed by the Jackson's Mill Project (Charleston, West Virginia, 1981) this operational guide was developed to provide local or state curriculum designers with methods of implementation. Content and suggested activities for various technology-related courses are provided, along with models…

The report evaluates the impact of present education laws on deaf and hard-of-hearing children in Washington State and clarifies issues that require action. Recommendations are cited for improvements in placement decisions (in the context of least restrictive environment), support services, early intervention, and referral and assessment. Standard…

Recent studies showing the need for improvements in the educational system in the United States have resulted in strengthening of academic requirements, upgrading of standards for promotion, and increased course loads in high schools throughout the country. Pennsylvania is no exception to this trend; the passage of Chapter 5 legislation, which…

This book analyzes the ways in which majority and minority interests interact in the educational system. It begins with an examination of the excellence movement in American education, and then discusses an alternative approach through which, by emphasizing adequacy rather than insisting on excellence as an institutional requirement, minority…

Focusing on educational reform in China, this paper suggests policies that will lead to the optimal diffusion of educational innovations so as to enhance China's modernization efforts. The intention is to identify a theory of knowledge about the types of educational policies likely to be most beneficial in helping China achieve its educational…

This monograph reviews research and educational reports to examine the state of the art in preservice and inservice teacher education in the urban community in the United States. A review of urban areas in the last thirty years reveals major social and environmental changes, such as population increases, shifts in racial composition, the…

Three basic causes for the general decline in mathematics achievement among high school graduates nationally are poor motivation to learn math, poor math curriculum, and poor or no mathematics instruction. Many Native Americans drop mathematics because of lack of challenging courses or interesting teachers in their high schools. Since American…

In eight chapters, this document offers guidelines for school administrators on evaluating schools and school programs, based on a poll of administrators and consultants. The introduction discusses the purpose of evaluation, especially school improvement, and presents a list of evaluation standards. Chapter 1 outlines steps in evaluation planning,…