School systems in the United States reflect its social system and changes. Societal trends that have affected educational institutions include declining enrollment, informed and politically active minority groups, accelerating inflation rates, the back to basics movement, and a general public mistrust. To survive, public education must define the roles of each level of governance (local, state, and federal) by determining the goals of each level and its responsibility toward meeting these goals. Educational plans developed at each level should be evaluated at the next level to guarantee performance. (CMJ)