NCJ Number
161017
Date Published
1995
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This report presents the National Educational Goals; progress on the core indicators to measure progress on the goals; and a discussion of the importance and potential of partnerships among families, schools, and communities for improving education.
Abstract
The eight goals encompass readiness to learn; student achievement and citizenship; teacher education and professional development; mathematics and science; adult literacy and lifelong learning; safe, disciplined, and alcohol-free and drug-free schools; and parental participation. Analysis of the indicators indicates that progress toward the goals has been modest. Mathematics achievement at grades 4 and 8 has increased. The general health status of infants has improved. Incidents of threats and injuries to students at school have declined. However, student drug use and the sale of drugs at school have increased. Fewer secondary teachers reported holding a degree in their main teaching assignment in 1994 than in 1991. Nevertheless, by recognizing the significant role parents have in educating their children and involving them in meaningful ways, schools can make significant progress toward reaching the goals and becoming high-performing institutions. Family involvement can take place at home or in the school and can take a variety of forms in each location. Tables; case examples; contact information about each program; list of suggestions for families, schools, communities; and businesses; and lists of additional print and electronic resources