Notes that publication of "A Nation at Risk" sparked new wave of school reform with emphasis on educational accountability. Examines current accountability movement in terms of its historical antecedents and federal- versus state-level initiatives and requirements. Explores assumptions underlying educational accountability movement. Proposes…

A conversation with James Stigler, professor of psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles, about how to improve professional development for teachers. (PKP)

Argues that instead of raising academic standards, high-stakes testing has weakened them. (PKP)

The authors describe the current state of educational reform in the United States. They state that significant progress has been made, but much remains to be accomplished, especially in the inner cities. Topics discussed include the "Lake Wobegon effect" and accountability. (CH)

Four accountability questions and corresponding data sets are identified. Examples of evaluation procedures that can be used in response to each accountability question are provided. Four steps for implementing a proactive approach to accountability are presented. (Author)

Examines history of Title I--Better Schooling for Educationally Deprived Children--program since its inception in 1965. Notes difficulties encountered by Title I in developing accountability models. Relates history to testing companies' reactions to federal policy. Discusses the history of assessment programs, what types of tests are used, and the…

Describes how the budget can be used as a management tool (continuous-improvement plan) to help align district financial resources with school-reform efforts. Cites example of a continuous-improvement plan developed by the Ohio Department of Education. (PKP)

Argues that school districts should adopt diversified education programs selected for their conceptual strengths and evidence of effectiveness. (PKP)

Presents, as prototype for other school systems, case study of external program review of counseling program in midsize public school district conducted by local university counselor education program's students and faculty. Provides information about the rationale for the review, the evaluation plan, the review process, and evaluation results.…

Reports mixed evidence regarding the success of charter schools after 10 years, especially on the issue of academic achievement. Includes brief summaries of four recent studies on charter schools. Describes growth of for- profit and online charter schools. (PKP)

Reviews the report "Do Charter Schools Measure Up? The Charter School Experiment After 10 Years" created by the American Federation of Teachers. Argues that rather than being serious research, the report is an indictment against charter schools for the purpose of retaining the union's power in public schools. (WFA)

Reviews the history of charter laws since the first charter law was passed in 1991, examining the implementation of charter schools in California, Colorado, Minnesota, and Texas. The paper delineates issues and concerns and suggests educational practices within charter schools which are pertinent to the successful reinvention of public schools in…

Compares state policies with accountability provisions of the newly reauthorized Elementary and Secondary Education Act. (PKP)

Discusses current interest in a standard national curriculum and standardized testing, including national teacher standards, flexibility on the local level, choice of textbooks, governance, and costs. Cites foreign examples and describes organizations already active in the movement. (DM)

With the growth of online courses available for K-12 education, administrators should consider the following advice before implementing them in their schools: Plan carefully; think education, not technology; cooperate, do not compete; figure out the money. Includes a list of print and online reference materials on K-12 online education. (PKP)