This document deals with protection of education consumers. The best way to deal with the problem of malpractice in educational institutions is through a cooperative effort on the part of the federal, state, and private sectors to create a mechanism for coordinating education consumer affairs. Such a "triangle of assistance" would strengthen the ability to deal with problems without infringing on the autonomy of any of its parts. While broad consumer concerns have given impetus to concern for the education consumer, a number of other factors have played a part. The document discusses these factors, common malpractices of educational institutions, and the steps federal and state agencies are taking to protect educational consumers. (Author/KE)