In an effort to refocus attention on high schools - "the weakest link in a troubled education system" - the reform group Research for Democracy compiled this series of short essays on high school reform. Though their recommendations and research are not earth shattering, they underscore the need for higher standards and increased accountability for student achievement and teacher quality. In addition, the report helps focus attention on the importance of setting clear, consistent standards for student and teacher behavior and discipline. Finally, the essays provide a list of useful resources for parents, teachers, and community leaders seeking to move the ball forward on high school reform. You can download the entire report or individual essays at http://www.temple.edu/cpp/hs_issue_papers.htm.
Kathleen Porter-Magee is the superintendent of Partnership Schools, a network of seven urban Catholic schools in Harlem and the South Bronx. She is also author of a recent Manhattan Institute report entitled, Catholic on the Inside: Putting Values Back at the Center of Education Reform. Before joining the…
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