This survey report relates and analyzes the results of an exhaustive survey study of the status of theater in U.S. high schools. The report is divided into six sections. Part 1 is a general description or "snapshot" of the status of educational theater. Part 2 takes a look at the people who teach theater. Part 3 is an examination of…

Suggests a framework of six steps that can be used as a starting point to improve a secondary theater program to meet mandated standards: define motivation, study the standards, analyze the present program, create a planning team, determine student goals, and revise the curriculum. (PA)

Reports results from a survey of selected theater education experts regarding their views on what are the most valuable aspects of theater education for students. Discusses their views on the most important learning outcomes of theater education and specific priorities of theater education research. (SR)

Studies the status of theater in U.S. high schools. Finds that (1) 90 percent of high schools offer theater; (2) principals recognize its value to theater students, but not its value to other students and the community; (3) most theater teachers have advanced degrees yet feel inadequately trained; and (4) most theater students are white and…

States that recent research suggests that an education in theater beginning in kindergarten and continuing throughout the educational process can teach students valuable skills that will serve them well in the professional world, including problem solving, team work, and decision making. Discusses the program at Jefferson High School and its…

Describes and discusses a three-step process for creating a feasible evaluation system for a theater program: (1) writing a values statement; (2) creating an internal accountability plan; and (3) making an external accountability plan. (SR)