According to a 2010 report by ACT, "Only 31 percent of students are performing at a college-and-career reading level with respect to successfully understanding complex text" (p. 5). This statistic demonstrates what educators know: Middle and high school students face numerous challenges in reading, understanding, connecting to, and…

The goal of IMPACT II is to set up a system whereby teachers who have developed exemplary classroom programs can receive grants and join a network to disseminate their programs to interested teachers. An address is given for sending for information and the IMPACT II Handbook. (Author/DCS)

The chairman of the Committee on Labs and Centers, National Council on Educational Research, policymaking body for the National Institute of Education (NIE), states that education issues cannot be separated from questions of philosophy. Shared values represent an appropriate and useful utilization of taxpayer money at NIE. (MLF)

Across the country the arts are blending into other parts of the curriculum, as well as being valued on their own, with help from government, foundations, corporations, and community art enthusiasts. (Author)

By leaving school and home routines behind, a group of Maine elementary teachers have found grant-funded summer retreats an excellent source of renewal. Teachers have a chance to pursue chosen professional activities, participate in data- driven conversations, and spend time together with no competing concerns. (MLH)

By giving grants to creative teachers, establishing teacher networks, and helping teachers to help their peers, IMPACT II simultaneously nurtures innovation and teachers' professional commitment. (Author)