Focuses on the changing school population, changing expectations for the elementary school, and the changing view of how children learn. Primarily designed to be used as a road map for the school team of teachers, parents, and administrators, this report points the way for elementary education reform to help bring a "rich and rigorous education to all students." One of the most significant statements on the reform and restructuring of elementary education in the U.S. Award-Winner! Over 100,000 copies sold! Illustrated.

This report is intended to assist teachers, administrators, parents, and community leaders in achieving excellence in California's public elementary education. The report is also designed to help teachers and administrators engage elementary school students in a thinking curriculum that immerses students in a rich learning environment that recognizes and celebrates the unique background and experiences each student brings to the classroom. Following an introduction that outlines its purpose, the report is divided into seven chapters, each of which contains recommendations supported by a discussion, excerpts from key writings, and a listing of sources of additional information. The first chapter includes a detailed discussion of current learning theory and its implications for elementary instruction on a subject-by-subject basis. One recommendation is included. The second chapter, which deals with practical strategies for implementing a rigorous curriculum, contains recommendations 2 through 15. Chapter 3 concerns ways to connect classroom teachers to the larger professional issues in elementary education and consists chiefly of recommendations 16 through 20. Ways in which California's new elementary grades assessment program can be used to spur curriculum reform are described in recommendations 21-24 contained in the fourth chapter. The fifth chapter outlines ways to help families and children build emotional bonds to the school as detailed in recommendations 25-29. Students' physical and emotional needs are addressed in the sixth chapter, which presents one recommendation, and the final chapter (ending with recommendations 31 and 32), describes steps that school districts can take to support elementary schools in their quest for self-improvement. (MM)

Contains information, activities, and examples for the kindergarten classroom teacher.

In November 1997, recognizing the critical importance of preschool as a foundation for success both in school and in life, California's State Superintendent of Public Instruction convened a task force of distinguished educators, parents, researchers, and civic and business leaders from throughout the state to consider how to make preschool programs universally available within the next 10 years to all 3- and 4-year-olds whose families want this option. This report presents the findings and recommendations of the Universal Preschool Task Force, offering details and proposals for a comprehensive program. The report details six major recommendations: (1) offering universal preschool; (2) developing a master plan; (3) taking immediate action to phase in universal preschool; (4) raising program standards of preschool providers; (5) making universal preschool available in a variety of settings and coordinating programs with other services; and (6) committing funds for the long-term. The report's two appendices include the accreditation criteria and procedures of the National Association for the Education of Young Children, and the Child Development Permit Matrix. (JPB)