An abundance of research exists related to student and school factors that influence student achievement; however, due to the increase in value-added assessment models and the number of states that are instituting such models, there is a significant need to investigate school characteristics and programs that promote academic growth as measured…

This report, the Center on Education Policy's (CEP's) third annual review of Maryland's efforts to restructure schools under the No Child Left Behind Act, finds that (1) although between school years 2006-07 and 2007-08 the number of schools in the restructuring implementation phase declined slightly, there was a drastic increase in the number of…

This report describes Ohio's school restructuring efforts under the No Child Left Behind Act, including findings from interviews with state officials and case studies of nine schools in four school districts: Cincinnati Public Schools, Cleveland Metropolitan School District, Mansfield City Schools, and Mount Vernon City Schools. Key findings from…

This paper uses research findings on program evaluations over the last 20 years to derive 10 "Golden Rules" that will help school districts increase student learning. Each of the rules is described and illustrated within the context of a five-part quality assurance and evaluation system of program screening, field-testing, adoption and…

Because federal law offers little guidance for continually-failing schools, the Center on Education Policy (CEP) conducted a study from August 2006 to January 2007 in Michigan to explore questions of what happens after restructuring, particularly to schools that continue to fail to meet achievement targets. Because it had an accountability system…

The School Improvement Project demonstrates that when schools rigorously implement activities that address the five "Edmonds Factors," gains in student achievement and staff attitudes can be made. These factors are (1) strong administrative leadership; (2) emphasis on basic skills; (3) an orderly school climate; (4) ongoing student…

Salient accomplishments of the education reform movement (public involvement, state action, funding, student achievement, etc.) are outlined and five unanswered questions about its mission, durability, substance, means, and results are discussed. (MSE)