States are in the leadership position to effect pervasive and comprehensive changes needed in the educational system. There exist five key dimensions for analyzing initiatives resulting in systemic changes: (1) infusiveness, building upon existing knowledge; (2) pervasiveness, effecting improvements in all key components of the system, including…

Reliable and current data is the foundation upon which good public policymaking is built. While California collects a good deal of data on its teaching workforce, policymakers have lacked a state-level data and analysis system to provide answers to even some of the most basic questions: How many credential holders actually take jobs? In what types…

The Comprehensive Evaluation System (CES), a comprehensive computer program system designed for the implementation of statewide standards for all schools and school systems in Georgia, is described. The system, mandated by state reform legislation, was conceived as a set of standards ranging from legal adherence through standards of excellent…

This document offers the results of a study of Nevada's telecommunications requirements, based on a comprehensive survey of existing networks associated with state and local governments, school districts, and the university system. It reports that Nevada can accrue benefits from telecommunications in the areas of education, economic development,…

These guidelines are intended to assist Colorado school districts and boards of cooperative services (BOCS) in developing systems which meet the requirements of the Certificated Personnel Performance Evaluation Act (as amended), which mandates written systems for performance evaluation of all certificated personnel. The guidelines distinguish…

Explores elements of the design of school choice programs, defining outcomes and technical criteria. These criteria are applied to failed choice initiatives in three states and to a proposed initiative in California, the Parents' Choice in Education Amendment. Differential effects in urban and suburban schools are considered. (SLD)

The Strategic Information Technology Plan of Washington is introduced and explained. The plan is mandated by state law to create a new framework for communication and collaboration to bring together agency technology planning with the achievement of statewide information technology goals and strategies. It provides a point of reference for the…