Since 1956 the "Core Program" in the Omaha (Nebraska) Public School System has been a central part of the seventh through ninth grade curriculum. The program is interdisciplinary combining the teaching of language arts and social studies in blocks of two or three hours. These extended periods allow for the integration of academic…

Replete with lessons for educators, this book reports in a personal way on a middle school classroom study undertaken by a teacher researcher that was to last 1 year but ended up lasting 6 years. The book contains the social and cultural forces that influence adolescents' literacy development--for instance, taking a hard look at the race and…

This report describes the ways in which the Center for Minority Achievement works to reform public education for early adolescents in six New York City schools. It consists of edited conversations among the three central staff members of the program and vignettes and quotes from a school student and from staff affected by the program. These…

This training manual is designed for use by volunteers, tutors, teachers, and education and training program coordinators who wish to adapt basic literacy instructional skills to street youth. It is not intended to be a stand-alone training program for new volunteer tutors. Major goals are the following: (1) to re-engage street youth in the…

This manual explains the role and responsibilities of case managers employed by social service agencies participating in the Takin' It to the Streets program in Portland (Oregon). It is a companion volume to "Basic Skills Training for Street Youth: A Manual for Volunteer Tutors." Takin' It to the Streets is a volunteer project designed…

America's economic future depends on the ability of educators to improve minority student retention and preparation. Demographic trends indicate that the economy will be dependent on the contributions of minority workers, who will comprise 60 percent of the labor force. Yet, school statistics indicate that 70 percent of Hispanic students and 28…