As a basis for taking a position on the future school structure in grades 8-10 in Denmark, an extensive study was carried out on mixed ability teaching (teaching in heterogeneous classes) on these grade levels. Results showed that mixed ability teaching gave at least as good results as teaching in differentiated classes. (Author/LMO)

Even as school standards rise, the on-time graduation rate remains generally stable and the proportion of the American population that has completed high school is the greatest in our history. Negative estimates are based on a lack of definitions and data discrepancies. Two strategies for increasing the graduate rate are discussed. (PS)

Describes the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics, a free, residential two-year program affiliated with the University of North Carolina. The school accommodates 400 students and features an outstanding faculty, impressive facilities, a selective admission policy, rigorous graduation requirements, and a mentor program. (MLH)

Investigated factors associated with Black students' (N=196) remaining in school and their successful completion of requirements in their majors that would lead to graduation. Found cognitive measures (high school grade point averages and Scholastic Aptitude Test scores) to be more important than noncognitive indices (racial identity,…

Examines the new state-mandated high school graduation tests emerging in response to perceived declines in educational standards. Indicates general consequences for implementing these tests, including public perceptions based on a "box score" mentality. As competency measures, the tests have had little impact on pupils, teachers,…

Reform activities initiated by states in response to the National Commission on Excellence in Education's report tend to fall into five categories; teacher preparation and professional development, teacher certification, curriculum, instruction, and financing. The state initiatives are reviewed in this article. (MT)

Results of a national survey on state postsecondary regulations concerning the use of competency or other tests required of college students in the course of their undergraduate programs as a check on academic standards, and the impetus for such a requirement, are reported. The policies of Georgia, Florida, and California are highlighted. (MSE)

Florida's new standards for college admission are outlined and support and criticism from the academic and general community are discussed. Among the issues are unevenness of pre-collegiate academic experience, increased barriers to minority group access and success, and the ability of the new standards to assure equivalent undergraduate…

Reports responses from 83 schools in a survey that covers the number of languages required and the means of satisfying those requirements. (CRH)

This article describes programs successfully combating drunk driving among teenagers in Maine, Virginia, and New York, discusses the nationwide movement called Students Against Driving Drunk (SADD), anti-drunk driving legislation, and the need for increased alcohol education, and provides information on how to emphasize student sobriety and safety…

This report details the graduation rates for the class of 2003 for Montana High Schools. Sections include: Montana High School Completion and Graduation Rate Overview, and Montana High School Completion and Graduation Rates, 2002-03 School Year.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court's landmark Brown v. Board of Education school desegregation decision. Yet despite half a century of efforts to improve educational opportunities for African American students and other minorities, a large achievement gap persists. By 12th grade, the average African American and…

The purpose of this report is to help in the evolution of these systems by examining the measures used, including, but not limited to, tests. The author asks: Are these the best measures? Are they used right? Are there other measures that should be employed? It is the model of reform itself that is examined, and the report does not address…

The purpose of this analysis was to examine the persistence, graduation and transfer rates of full-time students who received an EAG (Educational Assistance Grant) or GAG (Guaranteed Access Grant) and matriculated during the 1996-1997 academic year. The performance of these students was examined on the basis of the number of years in which…