Reports on the author's year as a Fulbright Hays Exchange teacher at a bilingual secondary school in Hungary. Describes changes in society, politics, and education since the end of the Cold War. Contends that the school curriculum has deemphasized vocational education and provided more autonomy for teachers. (CFR)

Addresses some of the problems facing the educational system of Hungary as it moves from a Marxist perspective to a system attempting to inculcate democratic principles. Most Hungarians are optimistic although the old system was entrenched and enforced for many years. Includes comments from many citizens. (MJP)