Argues that "A Nation at Risk" failed to address adequately problems of urban education, and thus the achievement gap between minority and white students still exists. Describes several problems that still plague low-performing urban schools, such as bureaucratic aversion to change, high levels of poverty, and low teacher quality and…

Describes the planning, leadership, and organizational strategies that formed the basis for the Houston School District's efforts to implement standards-based reform. Identifies some reform initiatives that need to be expanded, such as new uses of online instruction and new approaches to the recruitment and training of teachers. (PKP)

Discusses trend of "takeovers" of low-performing big-city school districts by skilled outsiders and argues that success depends on how schools are overseen rather than who oversees them. Describes optimum district environment for success and argues structure and accountability ultimately more important than person in charge. (KSB)