Social and demographic changes in American society have given rise to an abundance of educational literature about the role of schools. Schools must provide both basic and advanced academic preparation, but should they also compensate for and assume some of the roles of the family? This document identifies current trends and issues in education by presenting a profile of urban students as reflected in the current literature, and by describing current programs and practices in urban schools. Information is provided in the following categories: (1) the demographics of minority populations, immigrants, dropouts, and pregnant teenagers; (2) programs for dropout prevention; (3) school and classroom organization for learning; (4) creation and maintenance of a professional urban work force; (5) special programs for diverse students; (6) science and mathematics for minority and female students; (7) parents and schooling; (8) business involvement; and (9) minorities and nonpublic schooling. A 205-item bibliography is included. (VM)