The U.S. educational system and student achievement are examined using a historical perspective. Academic achievement, school budgets, educational innovations, and educational philosophies are compared across different periods of U.S. history. Problems associated with various changes in the educational process are outlined. Parental attitudes on such issues as student achievement, discipline, and school costs are also presented. Achievement test results representing several different standardized tests, from a cross-section of 23 states, are appended. (MV)