Using examples from California, the author analyzes the increasing trend for states to assume a guiding or dominant role over local school districts in important aspects of American education. He considers the main reasons for this trend to be public concern over academic standards and the increasing cost of education. (Editor/SJL)

Presidents and governing boards of institutions of higher education are shown to be leaders mainly in title and visibility. Internal limitations by technical staffs and the external power of accrediting agencies and state and federal governments are discussed. (Article originally published in 1972.) (AF)

There appears to be growing concern that state systems of financing capital outlay may be vulnerable to successful legal challenge. Outlines considerations for the development of a defensible conceptual base for allocating scarce capital outlay funds. (Author/MLF)

Traces the recent growth of technology in society and education, raising concerns stemming from viewing technology as inherently good. Discusses the importance of interrogating technology for long-term ethical, economic, and pedagogical deficits and for ways that change, growth, and competition ultimately favor privileged society and overlook the…

Describes performance funding as a relatively new approach that links tax support to institutional results from performance indicators chosen by the state. Under result-based funding, states consider efficiency and effectiveness as a basis for funding two- and four-year schools. Budgeting shifts from what states should do for their colleges toward…

Examines the economic health of New England's approximately 260 higher education institutions using six indicators: enrollment (foreign students/total enrollments by institution type); state support of higher education; private support of higher education; student financial aid; research and development; and library holdings. Offers overviews and…

Predicts the nature of college fund-raising campaigns in 2007, based on recent trends. Notes that campaigns will be shaped by student enrollment growth, competition for diminishing public dollars, and polarization of American incomes. Argues that campaigns should only be long enough to meet objectives, fit within a long-range advancement plan, and…

Data on each state's fiscal 1996-97 appropriations to postsecondary education are presented, giving dollar amounts and two-year changes for individual institutions and other categories, such as aid to private colleges and allocations for vocational education, community colleges, technical colleges, and student financial aid. States are also ranked…

With state budgets in trouble across the United States, many school districts have already been hit with midyear cuts. Morale is the first and biggest issue administrators and school boards have to tackle. Successful leaders must be able to forecast what lies ahead and plan for the future. Good communication with staff and the public is crucial to…

In its first year (1986-87), a $37.4 million Connecticut aid program has markedly reduced disparities in teacher salaries and expenditures per pupil. This paper reviews the use of school aid increases in Connecticut, describes the simulation models used, explains the models' role in targeting state aid, and outlines the legislation and its…

Discusses the barriers to the success of the Yonkers (New York) public school district's desegregation plan. Provides a profile of the district and an explanation of its governance. Presents the plan for desegregation and discusses the financial obstacles to its implementation. Discusses the need for additional aid and assistance. (JS)

The summer drought, the oil-market slump, and the desire for political popularity are among the causes for state financial problems. A report by the National Governors' Association and the National Association of State Budget Officers found that in 1987, the amount of money left in general-fund accounts was at its lowest point in 12 years. (MLW)

Describes the current status of California's community colleges and reviews predictions for the future. Indicates that innovation, change, the quality movement, and technology will be key players in the colleges' future. Discusses "Choosing the Future," a controversial report by the Commission on Innovation to the state Board of…

Traces the efforts in North Carolina to divide the fiscal burden of public education between the state and local governments while ensuring fairness, equity, and quality in education. Describes current issues of financial responsibility, fairness, and education reform. (108 references) (MLF)

Discusses the role of the courts in educational policymaking and educational quality improvement. It examines the courts' success in using state constitutions to mandate educational policy, the influence of the Goals 2000 initiative in school financing, the factors attributed to the state's increased legal exposure, and the court's impact in…