"Straight A's: Public Education Policy and Progress" is a biweekly newsletter that focuses on education news and events both in Washington, DC and around the country. The following articles are included in this issue: (1) You Take the High Road and I'll Take the Low Road: As Appropriations Process Begins, Different Spending Approaches Likely to…

This document is one of eight reports prepared to support the development of a new learning system, a development effort that is the first step in a major initiative undertaken by the Stupski Foundation. This document synthesizes recent research and theoretical literature on effective strategies for supporting urban, underserved students'…

Throughout the nation, public school kindergartens are moving from half-day to extended or full-day sessions. Reasons for the transition are given. Parental involvement in planning is discussed. (MT)

Due to working parents, unsafe home conditions, and mass-media pressures, schools are becoming increasingly involved with providing child care for school-age children. While afterschool care poses a number of design, funding, and equity problems, schools and communities can resolve them to the great benefit of the children served. (MLH)

This document compiles the first 12 volumes of "School-Age Notes" (a total of 78 issues). Originally published six times a year, the journal changed to monthly with volume 12. The following list of topics covered in volume 12 provide good examples of the journal's typical coverage: (1) indicators of the quality of child care staff; (2)…