There is a pantheon of literature and popular panic pointing toward the academic ascent of girls and the decline of boys. On the contrary, the reality is different: Boys are learning and succeeding in many places. Two studies find that the places where boys excel have several common characteristics, including teachers who relate to the boys…

Describes how two secondary schools implemented the six basic elements of personalized instruction: The Thomas Haney Secondary Centre in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, and the Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School in Devens, Massachusetts. (Contains 14 references.) (PKP)

The Project on Alternatives in Education (1981) on North American alternative schools shows the movement's steady growth, high staff morale and control, and attendance. Factors contributing to success: smallness, choice, extended roles, relative autonomy, continuing evaluation, and teacher participation. Teacher/student relationship and positive…