The data are clear: Too many students are not doing well in school. Too many are experiencing interfering barriers, most of which are not internal dysfunctions but are associated with neighborhood, family, school, and peer factors. If the situation is to change, schools must play a greater role in providing supports for students experiencing…

The panel provides an overview of the factors most influential in shaping the American high school as it exists today and recommends (1) replacing the comprehensive high school and providing comprehensive education; (2) establishing participatory education involving adolescents and other interested adults in the community; (3) establishing small,…