Discusses eight key elements that should be included in programs (in school districts along the United States-Mexico border) designed to boost immigrant parents' participation and involvement in their children's education. (SR)

Competency testing is only one component of competency-based education (CBE); the others are: educational objectives, instructional process, remedial instruction, and program evaluation/reconceptualization. To implement only competency testing may result in disillusionment with the entire concept of CBE, which seeks to improve programs, not fail…

Presented are objectives for a continuing education program designed to meet the needs of foster parents. The author suggests that university programs that use an interdisciplinary approach and capitalize on university-community resources can design successful parenting programs for foster parents. (KC)

Nineteen high school students in an experimental self-directed learning class were interviewed about their out-of-school learning projects: number completed per year; time spent; subject(s) studied; setting (individual or group); preferred project method; and motivation (desire for credit or other reason). (SJL)

Reports on "Writing Day at Barnes," an intermediate school program implemented to introduce writing skills in every subject area. Presents an overview of teacher training, program framework, sample lesson plans, and guidelines for developing similar programs which focus on the improvement and reinforcement of specific writing expression…

The Community Experimental Education Center (CEEC) serves 50 disadvantaged students, ages 16 to 20, unable to function well in traditional schools. Each student must complete 33 competencies in career, consumer, and life skills. This report discusses the program design, funding, and staffing and lists the 33 competencies. (SJL)