Discusses ways to reinvigorate public education to enhance democratic values and civic virtues. Argues that school choice (charter schools, home schooling, and vouchers) fragments the current system of education. Calls for public schools and social institutions to work together to prepare children for school and make schools ready for children.…

The president emeritus of Carl von Ossietzky University in Germany describes a research project examining the university's role in creating a democratic citizenship, prompted by the European Union's need to create societies in which citizens can participate actively in determining their own future. (EV)

Asserts that the unity that comes out of a diverse society depends on the development of cognitive, social, and democratic skills, dispositions, and values. Explains that research is in progress as to how this can take place during the college years. (EV)

Discusses the increase in censorship of student press over the two years since the Supreme Court decision in Hazelwood School v. Kuhlmeier. Notes that recent court decisions have indicated the Hazelwood decision may not be as broad as it initially seemed. (KEH)

Although improving teachers' salaries, status, and work conditions is essential, the traditional professional model is an ineffective, inappropriate basis for accomplishing these goals. Rather than relying on an undemocratic concept connoting privilege, special status, and the superiority of mental labor, teachers should seek less elitist bases of…

Discusses the past and present concept of critical democracy and examines the current trend toward individualism. Proposes a "connectionist" perspective that places central emphasis on the individual's connection to the lives of other human beings. (FMW)

Leisure is best when contributing to the excitement of independent learning and the advancement of individual growth and development. To help youngsters use free time effectively, public recreation providers should join with public education to provide out-of-school access to high technology. Such experiences should not be limited to the affluent.…

Trust is essential to every school board member striving to fulfill responsibilities to the electorate and the school system. Trust should not be blind, but based on experience and informed reasoning. Suggestions for trusting the superintendent, fellow board members, legal counsel, independent auditors, the democratic process, and oneself are…

Instead of offering a curriculum for lifelong learning, schools are governed by a turnstile mentality. To help students become wiser education consumers requires intensive dialogue about problems, cases, and controversial issues. Educational reforms that fail to focus on teacher-student and student-student interaction or on sharpening critical…

Waning interest in community service is spurring the Coalition for National Service and other groups to recommend various measures to encourage and finance voluntary national service for young people. This article discusses history, current definitions, and legislative initiatives concerned with national service. A sidebar provides a statement and…

Agrees with Bolman and Deal's observations concerning symbolic leadership in the same "Educational Administration Quarterly" issue. Points out some pitfalls of democracy--its tendency to promote conformity and undermine symbols. A society that commits itself to the democratic ideal must strive to organize its institutions accordingly and choose…

The issues of language (specifically, the English-only movement) and ethnic-based religion illustrate the ongoing democratic challenge of balancing individual with group needs. With increasing demographic diversity, America will have to find thoughtful and constructive ways to protect and set limits on both language and religious values. (MSE)

A survey of 266 residents of McLean County, Illinois, found that 91 percent believe technology makes life easier; 70 percent believe people are too technologically dependent; those with a history of political participation felt confident engaging in political activities regarding nuclear power, automation, and genetic engineering; and the public…

The demands made by diverse ethnic groups for inclusion in the curriculum will not go away. In oppressive societies, the mass media, entertainment, and schools are integral parts of information domination and manipulation process. Primary goal of pluralistic curriculum design is not concocting ethnic quotas but presenting a truthful, meaningful…

Defines "illegeracy," the key legacy of today's failed educational system, as the lack among students of the important cognitive and critical skills necessary for civic understanding. Provides examples of illegeracy among recent students. Suggests the pedagogical consequences of considering students as illegerate. (HB)