The public is deeply concerned that students in urban settings are not achieving at high levels. Over the past twenty years, large urban districts have attempted to restructure massive school systems using educational policymaking processes that have focused on school structures, standards-driven curriculum, and test-based accountability measures.…

Describes the "Partners in Reading" project, which pairs adults from the community with eighth-grade students to read books together and journal together. Describes how the program has grown. Details the many positive reading/writing outcomes for students and for participating adults, how students feel more connected to adults in the community,…