Education: Empowering Parents, Teachers, and Principals. Chapter 9. Issues '98: The Candidate's Briefing Book.

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Charter Schools; Educational Change; Elementary Secondary Education; Family Role; Federal Government; Government School Relationship; Parent Participation; Partnerships in Education; Program Development; Program Effectiveness

This article examines education reform in America, focusing on charter schools. It outlines the current issues in the educational system and details some of the problems that have been identified in recent years, such as lagging test scores. Some of the other difficulties that schools face include discipline problems, wasteful federal financial-aid programs, and record levels of student debt. The essay claims that more spending does not lead to better quality in education and provides a synopsis of where the money goes. It profiles some educational strategies that have enjoyed some success, such as contract management, charter schools, and school vouchers or scholarships. The text reports that school choice results in increased achievement and that it enjoys wide public support. Some of the other school reforms suggested in the document include the Chicago School Reform Model and the implementation of high standards. It examines the Clinton Administration's record in school reform and offers criticisms of each of these initiatives. It also reviews congressional approaches to education and outlines legislative efforts to establish school choice and charter schools, children's literacy, national tests, and block grants to local districts. Finally, the article outlines goals for reform, such as fostering school autonomy. (Contains 31 references.) (RJM)

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ED438630