Attempting to respond to differing community opinions about an all-day kindergarten in a period of budget problems, Superintendent Robert L. Zorn helped institute a program in which the afternoon session was optional, to be supported by a $100 "lab fee." (JM)

Disputes the assertions made in "A Nation at Risk" that extended school days and years would be beneficial and that more stringent academic requirements should be adopted. Asserts that the National Commission on Excellence in Education fails to understand both foreign educational systems and American educational needs and values. (PGD)

Research finds little relationship between allocated learning time and student achievement, some relationship between engaged time and achievement, and a greater relationship between academic learning time and achievement. Effective classroom management, appropriate instruction, and student motivation are important considerations. Implications and…

The principal and vice-principal of a California elementary school describe the eight critical elements that helped them develop a model expanded-day program at their school: identifying needs; sharing a vision; fostering staff ownership; investing in staff development; creating partnerships; linking learning to state standards; measuring and…

State-of-the-art review suggests extending time in school will increase achievement only modestly--and at great expense. (Author/DCS)

The standards movement and family work schedules are major factors underpinning the expansion of extended learning opportunities. A recent report by the Council of Chief State School Officials details the development of afterschool and other programs in California, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Texas. (MLH)