NCJ Number
114877
Date Published
1988
Length
42 pages
Annotation
This task force report sets forth recommendations aimed at fiscal and programmatic school reform and improvement for all children in New York State, particularly economically and socially disadvantaged and at-risk children.
Abstract
Recommendations are premised on the belief that equal educational achievement must become a reality for all children and that educational needs of at-risk children cannot be separated from their social needs. Individual differences in children must be respected. Similarly, racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity must be respected and infused into instruction, extracurricular activities, staffing, and the overall ambience of the schools. Teachers and administrators must be given greater responsibility in the management of the schools and the development of curricula. There must be a commitment to promoting the highest quality of teaching. Fundamental change is essential and may require complete restructuring of some schools. Accountability for conditions that put children at educational risk must be shared by schools, families, and the community. Services must start early, be planned comprehensively, and be coordinated. Resources must be targeted to distressed communities and to schools with the greatest concentrations of at-risk students. Finally, statewide standards for student achievement and regulations and services supportive of such standards are needed. 23 references.