This collection of short articles, devoted to educational reform at the local level, addresses the issues of improving curricula, expanding educational resources, addressing dropout and discipline problems, and handling increased court involvement in school reform. "The Sceptre, the Rod and the Schoolhouse Gate," by Lawrence Friedman, traces the history of court decisions on student rights. Michael Kirst, in "Cracking Down on Curriculum," reports on the status of curriculum reform and provides questions for local policy-makers to test the adequacy of their curricula. In "Court Ordered Reform: Too Much of a Good Thing?," Donald N. Jensen focuses on the lengthy federal courts' supervision of Boston public schools and draws lessons for local school administrators. Joan O'Brien helps local decision-makers find the cost consequences and service implications of alternative budget strategies in "Two New Budget Blueprints." Russell W. Rumberger's "Diagnosing Dropouts" cites successful programs that help potential or past dropouts finish school. Finally, in "Reclaiming Urban Schools," Henry Levin locates the greatest challenges for urban school policy-makers and outlines strategies to provide political support, resources, and effective planning for public schools in large cities. (JW)