Summarizes recent judicial and legislative action regarding school choice programs and explains the connection between school choice and the increased discussion of federal education tax credit initiatives. A tax credit would allow beneficiaries to apply the credit amount toward yearly federal tax liability and, if the credit is refundable,…

Presents details of the Zelman argument in Zelman v. Simmons-Harris, which challenged the Cleveland school voucher program. Argues that Cleveland's intent was not to assist private schools or advance religion, but rather to help students who were enrolled in a failing public school system. (NB)

Discusses the impact of the June 2000 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Mitchell vs. Helms, ruling that federal aid can be provided to religious schools when the aid is distributed on a neutral, per-pupil basis to students in all the district schools, public and private, secular and religious. (EMH)

Describes the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), George W. Bush's reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. Discusses ways in which the NCLB affects private religious schools, as well as offering suggestions for the ways in which Catholic schools should be addressing the changes in the law. (NB)

Examines the impact of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act on private schools. Describes the dilemma faced by parents of students with disabilities who choose a private or religious school. The cost of providing needed services exceeds parental and school budgets. Calls for a closer examination of how the laws actually limit access to…

Lists both federal and private educational technology funding sources for Catholic schools. Describes federal title programs, discounts, equipment, and services, as well as state, local, and corporate programs. (JDI)