This dissertation is comprised of three essays exploring the performance of students on standardized tests in public schools. Since the passage of the "No Child Left Behind Act" (NCLB) in 2002, public schools have been subject to penalties for poor student achievement. In particular, NCLB requires states to measure reading and math test…

What is the best educational approach to prepare today's students to become tomorrow's leaders? How do we equip today's students with 21st century skills necessary for success? These important questions face parents, educators, policymakers, and communities. ASCD proposes a new whole child approach, supported by research, to provide the foundation…

Argues the need for schools to provide learning environments, educational practices, and encouragement to enhance academic achievement in each student within the system. New teacher roles are examined, and some examples are provided of successful efforts in schools that effectively concentrate on the individual student's academic success. (GLR)

This presentation summarizes effective strategies and programs for nurturing students who are gifted in science. A smorgasbord of educationally accelerative opportunities is recommended, to enhance students' potential for future development in science. These opportunities may include field trips, advanced placement courses, and science summer…

This paper describes an academic assistance program designed to help ethnic minority students adjust to the demands of university life and succeed both academically and personally. The Excel program has three major components: a two-semester, two-credit core seminar; weekly instructional support groups; and peer led tutorial/discussion groups. The…

This collection considers the personal and educational needs of the student who is gifted, with emphasis on the roles of support staff. It covers developmental perspectives; assessment, identification, and evaluation issues; educational services; personal, interpersonal, and cultural issues; intervention strategies; and gifted education issues.…