In this response to the call for transformative models of teaching students in urban contexts, the author presents his own experiences in becoming a critical pedagogue, the path that led him there, and three models of classrooms that he sees in such contexts. He emphasizes the need to reject an apolitical stance in urban education, and provides a…

Describes problems of maintaining discipline and security at Jamaica High School in Queens, New York. Argues that court decisions and school regulations have allowed minority of aggressive and disruptive students to destabilize the learning environment. (PKP)

Schools must establish the same quality standards and techniques used by businesses to achieve Total Quality Management (TMQ). TMQ can help public education to respond to the challenges typical of inner-city schools: a high transfer rate; aging faculty; and students with poor reading and math skills, lack of motivation, low self-esteem, and a…

A preliminary analysis of three effective schools projects in Wisconsin and New York shows general improvement, especially in school climate and basic skills teaching. Administrative support included district, central office, and higher education personnel for staff development. Successful implementation can result in substantial immediate…

Changes signaling more effective public education that taxpayers have not yet perceived include targeting of resources to deficient schools, summer remedial programs and tougher student promotion policies, principal training programs, more efficient use of funds, improved student achievement, new regulations reducing school violence, and increased…

Presents excerpts from interviews with Zella Jackson, Title I Coordinator in New York City's Community School District 5, Central Harlem. Offers a glimpse of one perspective on life in Harlem, particularly its educational environment. (RL)

Examines school-based decision making, discussing its promise for urban settings, describing implementation of local control in New York and Detroit, highlighting decentralization effects in four locations, and making recommendations based on similarities and differences between and among sites that may be instructive to other urban settings…

The role and importance of education for homeless children and families particularly in New York City at the Homes for the Homeless organization are considered. The educational needs and role of parents are also explored. Education is a key component in the struggle against poverty, and parents need to embrace education both to move toward greater…