New Schools for the Disadvantaged.

Abstract

This paper outlines the types of schooling programs that will build on the strengths of educationally disadvantaged students to bring them into the educational mainstream as well as to prepare them for economic, political, and social participation. Without intervention on behalf of the disadvantaged, the following results may occur: (1) a dual society with a large uneducated underclass; (2) disruption in higher education; (3) national economic deterioration; and (4) rising costs of public services. The educational plight of the disadvantaged is outlined. Any strategy for improving their situation must begin at the elementary level, and must be dedicated to preparing students for doing high quality work in secondary school. Such a strategy is the Accelerated School, a transitional elementary school that brings disadvantaged children up to grade level by the completion of the sixth grade. The following aspects of the Accelerated School are discussed: (1) school-based governance; (2) goals; (3) pupil and school assessment; (4) nutrition and health; (5) curriculum; (6) instructional strategies; (7) comcunity resources; (8) parental participation and training; and (9) extended daily session. The major organizational dimensions of change required for transforming schools into accelerated learning institutions are discussed, and steps to assist the transformation are suggested. An 18-item list of references is included. (BJV) ************************************************ ***** ****************** * , Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. U 5 DEPARTMENT Of EDUCATION Office of Educational Research and Improvement EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER IERICI )4. TMS document has been reproduced an ' received trom the person or organizatiJi originating it 0 Minor changes have been made to improve reproduction quality Points of . ew or opinions slated in thiSdocu ment do not necessarily represent off.oal OERI posItion or policy g/3--$.9 PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE THIS MATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY 4-16,1 ri , Leu,,,, Sta-iPord Okiv TO THE EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CFNTER (ERIC) NEW SCHOOLS FOR THE DISADVANTAGED