Difficulties in the formulation and implementation of a uniform national educational policy are analyzed in this book. A review of American educational history concludes that alternative policy processes must be considered if the nation is to develop public policies capable of addressing a national education crisis. Obstacles to a centralized educational policy are domination of the educational system by an established educational and academic community oriented to local control, and the evolution of a nonpublic, or "para-private," process that influences policy decisions. An alternative policy formation process is advocated that expands the role of the federal government in developing a national youth policy while maintaining the involvement of educational and other professionals, the local community, parents, and state governments. The table of contents is as follows: "A Nation at Risk"; "Federal Role in Perspective"; "A Para-Private Policy Process"; "A Generation at Risk"; "Reform Strategies and Policies"; "A National Public Policy Process"; and "A National Youth Policy." A selected bibliography and index are included. (LMI)