Based on a literature review, this report provides an overview of charter schools. A total of 52 studies of operating charter schools and documents exploring the origins of the charter school concept were reviewed. The report covers the following topics: why and how people create a charter school; charter schools' autonomy compared with public…

This report examines the extent to which proposals to decentralize public education can be implemented by individuals, groups, or institutions prepared to operate charter schools. Charter schools must be able to balance autonomy for decisions relating to educational programs and accountability with academic standards and market forces.…

The chapters in this book originated as papers for a conference, School Choice and Educational Change, held in March 2000 at Michigan State University. An introductory chapter provides a comparative analysis of the lessons learned from international experience with school-choice policies, based on a review of case studies in several countries. The…

The first wave of school improvement, largely perceived later as a failure, responded to Sputnik-era fears the United States was falling behind other nations, and focused on minor reforms of the educational system. Larry Cuban distinguishes the first-order changes of the first wave from the more fundamental changes implied in second wave efforts.…

Discusses school reform efforts in England that were designed to make England's publicly funded schools as attractive as independent schools via government funding. Efforts include enhancing parental choice of schools by removing bureaucratic and administrative restrictions, establishing a national school inspection system to maintain quality, and…

Explores the role of experience in educational change in a roundtable discussion with S. Nicolau, D. Davies, and D. Moore. A common thread is the vision of the school as a center of community life and a community of learners that includes students, parents, and teachers. (SLD)

Presents the views of a concerned citizen on reshaping U.S. schools in a peaceful, grass-roots revolution. Emphasis is on the neighborhood school, with parent participation, and a system that keeps students with the same teacher for multiple years. The human and technological resources that the approach requires are discussed. (SLD)

Explores the current educational reform movement through its first and second waves. Progress to date is reviewed, and issues for future concern are discussed, including (1) outcomes-based education; (2) national testing; (3) the curriculum; (4) parental choice; and (5) urban schools. (SLD)

Discusses educational reform, and argues that little had been accomplished in the past decade because of general complacency. Discusses lack of incentive to change. Proposes 10 essential elements of a reformed education system that parallel the "American 2000" strategy. Argues that the current political climate is ready for change. (JB)

The national issue of school choice and the reduction and prevention of violence among youth are two issues that are critical for African-American educators, parents, youth, and education supporters. In addressing these problems, African-American educators must become role models of empowerment and advocacy for youth. (SLD)

Discusses school choice policy itself, the debate between proponents and opponents, and the range of possible school choice programs. Addresses the roles of federal and state governments, the courts, and school administrators in school choice plans. Presents recommendations for achieving an educational environment that engages the minds of all…

Argues that the following steps will effectuate educational reform: (1) provision of more latitude and flexibility in school governance; (2) business commitment to using and upgrading the inner-city workforce; (3) consumer understanding of rights and options available within public education; and (4) government understanding of the danger of…

Investigates why African-American parents with children attending urban and suburban Catholic and other private schools prefer private to public schools, focusing on 409 respondents' views toward public schools. Their responses on a 50-item self-report questionnaire show that African-American parents think lack of discipline is a major public…

After visiting 30 inner-city schools in New York City, Chicago, San Antonio, Ohio, and New Jersey, the acclaimed author of "Death at an Early Age" concludes that public schools remain more separate and unequal than they were 27 years ago. Instead of embracing vouchers for school choice, we should support and fund genuine equality for all…

Presents a listing of ERIC documents and journal articles on public school choice as an area of education reform. Includes reports, policy arguments, and surveys of state laws and initiatives and national trends. Provides information for obtaining the listed documents. (DK)