Discusses implications (in general and, specifically, on education), of the rapid demographic changes that are transforming the racial, regional, and age characteristics of the nation's population. Considers urban policy issues generated by these demographic trends. (GC)

The imposition of minimum competency testing in high schools must be seen in a social and political context. Since many minority students have received an inferior education, minimum competency tests may be seen as a means of preventing these students from receiving their high school diplomas. (Author/RLV)

The achievement gap persists within U.S. classrooms. Although teachers do make a difference in terms of what and how much students achieve, educational practitioners and policy makers would be well served to consider social inequities created by demographic realities, instructional practices that engender broad student participation, and…

Argues for a cultural policy that emphasizes pluralism, dialogue, and cultural transformation. Suggests that the arts provide a critical vehicle for promoting cultural equity. Uses the example of Hartford (Connecticut) to demonstrate the difficulties that face minority arts institutions and minority artists. (EVL)

Describes factors hindering the recruitment and retention of minority students in gifted education. Presents recommendations for change that center on equitable screening and identification instruments and procedures, providing minority students with a quality education, addressing barriers to student achievement, and improving teacher…

This article presents a study that explores the relationship between charter schools and teacher autonomy. The theoretical framework is based on the charter school concept, whereby three policy levers--choice, deregulation, and accountability--lead to various goals for the charter school. One of the first and foremost of these is the enhancement…

Suggests the extent to and particular ways in which urban governments and school systems are undemocratic and unresponsive to community needs. Provides an example of the general inability of minority groups to obtain their social and political goals through either protest or political bargaining. (Author/AM)

Integration, testing practices, and the mandate for multicultural education have made individuals more aware of changing practices within the school community. Professionals, however, have not acted in a way that is fair to all children. There is a need for behaviors which reflect a congruence between an individual's professional role and a…

Reviews recent demographic changes in the United States and projections for the future. Suggests that the response to the new diversity can emphasize either assimilation or cultural pluralism and cultural transformation. Introduces eight articles in which anthropologists take a strong position in favor of the latter course. (EVL)

Reviews the reasons for increasing the diversity of the teaching force, especially in urban schools. Introduces the articles of this special issue, which address the roles of federal, state, and local governments in increasing teacher diversity, discuss successful programs for increasing diversity, and describe the experiences and perspectives of…

This paper examines Soviet policy toward Jews, especially in regard to education, to determine whether it is based on pervasive anti-Semitism, as the critics often claim or is rooted fundamentally in Marxist-Leninist ideology. (Author/AM)

The essay discusses efforts carried out by a community action agency to examine the issues of school discipline and student suspensions during the desegregation of the Milwaukee Public Schools. (Author/RLV)

Examines how Chicana teachers connected their experiences as minorities with their current teacher role. It explores use of a "bridging identity" to explain how the Chicana teachers appropriated and validated their own experiences as minorities and their family values that played a central role in constructing their teacher role…

Examines the implications zero-tolerance policies have in public schools, especially in regard to race/ethnicity and social class relations, suggesting that such policies are neither effective, child centered, nor equitable and may exacerbate inappropriate student behavior and disproportionately sanction ethnic/racial minorities. Recommends that…

Examines how current legal trends and policies shape the efforts of educators in urban schools serving the multicultural communities where immigrant families reside. Relevant laws and policies are reviewed, as well as the strategies educators use to meet the needs of immigrant children, including access to schools and programs, assessment and…