Purpose: Charter schools are unique public schools in part because this type of school can close if it fails to meet objectives set forth by the chartering body that approved it. Thus far, however, little research has been conducted into the causes of charter school closures. In this article, we examine charter school accountability. Research…

Looks at latest developments in State and Federal legislation and court litigation with regard to public aid to nonpublic schools. (LN)

Discusses the effect of recent court decisions on the role of the state in school support. (JF)

For nearly 50 years, the unemployment insurance program has functioned as a unique and largely successful intergovernmental effort. From its inception, federal and state governments have each had principal jurisdiction over particular aspects of the program and both have shared responsibilities for others. The distribution of authority and…

Discusses the background and issues involved in the Tilton v. Finch case in Connecticut's U.S. District Court. (MK)

This summary of the Education of the Handicapped Act Amendments of 1990, Public Law 101-476, identifies how these Amendments extend and expand special education research, demonstration, and training programs of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). IDEA authorizes three state formula grant programs and several discretionary grant…

Discusses the implication of recent court cases on federal and state funding of education. (JF)

The term "school finance" refers to the levying of taxes to obtain revenue for our public elementary and secondary schools. For most people it brings to mind the local property tax, teacher salaries, and, perhaps, some personal memories of their own experiences in the schools. For state legislators school finance brings to mind the…

The issues surrounding equity in education are complex and varied. Recently the focus has shifted to students at risk. This paper discusses four specific issues that have affected school learning for at-risk students over the last 50 years. Issue 1, equity and youth at risk, discusses the home and family life of at-risk students and its…

This document analyzes the highlights of school finance litigation, including early attempts at convincing the U.S. Supreme Court to declare education as a fundamental right guaranteed by the U.S. constitution, and recent arguments that have shifted the responsibility for delivering education entirely to the states. Cases described include: (1)…