Asserts that (1) the federal role should be limited when educational needs are already addressed by states; (2) federal programs should coincide with states' educational priorities; (3) federal involvement is justified when responding to an overriding national interest; (4) federal aid policy should allow states to set priorities; and (5) within…

Discusses the role of the national values of efficiency, choice, and equity in the adoption and implementation of the federal education block grant program and the negative effects on school desegregation. Urges policymakers to consider policy goals, and not just policy instruments, when considering future proposals. (FMW)

Draws on case studies from eight states to examine the initial operation of federal block grants. Finds that Chapter 2 worked better in its first year than its critics had predicted and that local education agencies frequently used their "united" money in innovative ways to meet local educational needs. (GC)

Reviews progress made toward educating handicapped children in the United States under Public Law 94-142. Describes how proposals by the Reagan Administration to reduce Federal involvement in education would place a heavy burden on individual States and would erode recent gains in educational opportunity for the handicapped. (GC)

Outlines progress made toward equal education for the disadvantaged under Title I. Warns that in times of economic austerity and with the absence of Federal regulation, local school systems will find it easy to use Federal funds for general educational expenditures, rather than for those who need compensatory services. (GC)

Summarizing findings of a study on the distribution of Federal, State, and local funds for vocational education, examines the case for deregulating vocational education. Reviews recent efforts to direct Federal funds to local education agencies with particular characteristics, and reviews efforts to control how Federal funds are spent. (Author/GC)