Schools have become fair game as a campaign issue but are not top priority. How the 41st president performs will hinge on the political estate of Ronald Reagan, the high voltage Washington political scene, and the caliber of the team staffing the new administration's education team. So far, the Education Department has failed as a believable…

National-level educational policy is being rapidly decentralized, according to this article, which offers a historical framework for understanding the new era in national education politics. The author analyzes implications of the changes taking place and discusses options open to proponents of a vigorous federal role in education. (Author/WD)

Argues that the Reagan administration is dismantling the educational efforts of the past 50 years, which could result in chaos. Suggests that state departments are incapable of exercising leadership in the absence of a federal role. Predicts the abandonment of educational research and special concerns and the demise of equality. (Author/WD)