That there is a significant degree of observable average difference in the intelligence quotients of blacks and whites is an established fact. The explanations for this offered by Herrnstein and Murray ("The Bell Curve," 1994) ignore the equally well-established facts of discrimination and disadvantage over centuries. (SLD)

Summarizes two studies concerning successful intervention strategies for disadvantaged youth and homeless children. Implications for camps involve developing partnerships with parents, teachers, and communities; increasing campers' problem-solving skills; providing positive role models; helping campers feel safe; and increasing campers'…

Examined the effectiveness of the Wisconsin Learnfare experiment that requires teens to attend school regularly as a condition of receiving family financial aid. Findings from state social services data reveal that, despite a $1.5 million "savings" attributed to the program between September 1988 and December 1989, tremendous family…

A study investigated study habits of 154 educationally disadvantaged engineering students enrolled in developmental studies programs in 3 South African universities. Aspects examined include entry skills, study patterns throughout the first year, and characteristics of students whose study habits changed over time. Implications for admission and…

Offers an overview of the position of African-American males, the problems they face, and the consequences for the nation and the African-American community. Looks at underclass status, racism, joblessness, national demographic changes, low educational expectations, intermarriage rates, participation in higher education, and career achievement.…

Presents a sociological analysis of African-American population changes, based on U.S. Census data for 1980 and 1990. The restructuring of the U.S. economy and the urban redevelopment and reorganization of the postindustrial city are suggested as causes of the differentials in the African-American population. (SLD)

Data for third, sixth, eighth, and twelfth graders from the 1983-84 California Assessment Program are presented to support a new theory on the relationship between the size and performance of school systems. Size appears to be related to the socioeconomic status and performance of schools and school districts. (TJH)

Provides an overview of school choice strategies. Examines the possible impact of choice on African American and poor children. Reviews recently passed Wisconsin legislation that allows for state-funded private school choice for a selected number of poor and minority children, thus addressing the needs of educationally disenfranchised groups. (AF)

Three decades after massive government commitment to financial aid, minority and low income access is declining and aid going to middle class students. Policies and political deadlock have worsened the situation of those in need, and hard choices must be made if college access is to be restored without greater expenditures. (SK)

Discusses appropriate care for children affected prenatally or after birth by parental chemical dependence. There is increasing evidence that environmental intervention by professionals and other caring adults can alleviate these children's distress. Maximizing their development also depends on implementation of child welfare protections and the…

Identifies and discusses sections of the U.S. Constitution that support the provision of legal aid to poor people. Reviews Supreme Court cases that deal with this topic. Includes five suggested learning activities and a vocabulary list. (CFR)

Studies opinions and comments of students who completed the Kansas Governor's Academy (KGA) program in summer 1991. The KGA served 24 at-risk students in an intensive program for academic and interpersonal skills. Student responses suggest that the program should continue, improve, and expand. (SLD)

Describes Boys Town, founded in 1917, as a model for foster care and an attractive alternative to a welfare system that undermines parental responsibility. Boys Town now operates satellite facilities for boys and girls in nine communities, as well as seven emergency shelters, a hospital, and a national hotline. (SLD)

Describes Saint Ignatius Loyola Academy, a middle school for poor youth from multicultural backgrounds in Baltimore. Relates how the mission and program of the academy were shaped and how students are selected. Describes the academy's academic, religious, and community service programs; the school's administration; and the Jesuit tradition. (MAB)

Describes the Padeia schools of Chattanooga (Tennessee), where the Padeia movement has taken root. In keeping with the founding proposal of Padeia (the Padeia Group, 1982), the course of study is generalized and has a single-track curriculum. Concepts of democracy, participation, and responsibility pervade the schools' climates. (SLD)