School districts on the leading edge of the Birth through Third Grade movement have demonstrated unprecedented success raising the achievement of low-income students by developing coherent strategies focused on the early years of learning and development. These communities are not merely improving preschool. Rather, they are building aligned,…

The Oregon State University/Western Oregon State College School of Education has introduced a "warranty" for its graduates' performance. Concurrent improvements in the existing program include more rigorous admission screening and student evaluation, expanded field experiences and academic requirements, and partnerships with other…

Describes how three institutions and agencies constructed an in-service teacher education program based on an assessment of the needs of teachers and administrators in the region. (IRT)

Describes the first year of a program conducted by two Oregon institutions of higher education that "warranty" their teacher education graduates. The program provides support to graduates and their employers, encourages collaboration between the teacher education program and local schools, makes the teacher education faculty accountable,…

Based on a University of Tokyo/Stanford University study, this article examines the context surrounding teachers' professional lives. Preliminary findings indicate similarities and differences in teacher perceptions of roles and responsibilities, institutional contexts, use of time, and professional development activities. Japanese teachers work…

Describes the Graduate Urban Education Program collaboratively developed by the school of Education at Florida International University, the Dade County (Florida) Public Schools, and the United Teachers of Dade for teachers in Chapter 1 elementary schools. The program helps teachers apply their professional training sucessfully in the urban…

Reviews the first twenty years of the Education Commission of the States, covering aspects of organization, administration, and activities (including the operation of the National Assessment of Educational Progress from 1969 to 1983). Describes recent changes in the commission's organization and focus, and considers changing expectations for the…