New pressures on accreditation and the unique factors that are the foundation of its continuing value to postsecondary education are addressed. The expanding variety of institutions to be accredited, government regulation, state authorization, legal sanctions, and self-regulation are also discussed. (Author/LBH)

A 2000 Supreme Court ruling barring age-discrimination suits for money damages by state employees against state agencies (under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act) presaged a 2001 ruling striking down the equivalent provision of the Americans with Disabilities Act. "Garrett" further limits Congress's power to regulate state…

The legal debate over religious freedom in public schools involves the aspects of control of education, definition of religion, and religious expression. Cites conflicting judicial decisions and states the issues the Supreme Court must resolve. (MLF)

This review of the background and current status of state level activities in testing documents the shift in locus of educational control from local school districts to state agencies, the key dimensions characterizing such programs, factors influencing their implementation and their possible impact. (Author/AEF)

Summarizes the results of a survey of state directors of community and junior colleges as to their views on the federal government's impact on their institutions. The directors felt the impact of federal legislation and regulations to be significant and exhibited a general attitude of ambivalence. (AYC)

Argues that the Reagan Era's New Federalism hamstrings government by precluding the possibility of a balance of power and responsibilities between state and federal government. Compares this development to the states' rights dilemma freed by John C. Calhoun. Contends that history shows federal inaction produces sectionalism, social cleavage, and…

South Carolina's Educator Improvement Act provides for a "cradle-to-grave" system of training, certification, employment, and evaluation of teachers. The author fears this type of legislation is the precursor of a nationwide shift in the locus of policy making. (Author/WD)

Legal aspects of the controversy surrounding sex education in the public schools are examined; the issue is placed in historical perspective; and implications for school administrators are drawn. Court decisions concerning the rights of parents, religious groups, and the state to determine curriculum content are summarized. (PP)

Analyzes the struggle to create a federal department of education in the 1920s. Details proponents' arguments in favor of efficiency, national control, and cultural homogeneity. Contends that opponents organized against further expansion of federal power. Places the debate within the larger context of progressivism and nativism. (CH)

Informational, diagnostic, prescriptive functions of National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) are best served by governance structure composed of federal, state, and local members and a standing technical advisory board. Structure protects NAEP from undue federal influence and special interest groups, builds bridges to educators and…

Presents a learning activity in which students compare their state constitution's bill of rights with the federal Bill of Rights. Provides a chart for identifying comparisons of enumerated rights. Includes background information and explains objectives and procedures. (CH)

Examines the present status of curriculum laws, the constitutional rights of those who oppose curriculum laws, and the possible impact of reduced local property taxes on state-mandated curricula. Available from Willamette University College of Law, Salem, OR 97301. (Author/IRT)

The role of state government in higher education planning is addressed by examining the actions of the New York State Education Department during a winter fuel emergency. The technical and administrative aspects of state involvement, and reasons why state agencies may be assuming more active planning roles are suggested. (BH)

In enacting federal age discrimination legislation, Congress has not preempted the ability of the states to afford more protection to employees from forced retirement than the federal act provides. States with and without age discrimination laws and other sources of law are briefly discussed. (MLW)

Details the legal historical influences at work on behalf of the state's authority to establish, revise, and disestablish schools and districts. Speculates on the future of the territorial basis of mass education, in light of legal battles of the past and present and the postmodern development of educational technology. (Author/KS)