In this book, an overall analysis of the urban crisis is presented and concrete suggestions are made for renewing urban education through a unique design called the "public-schools-of-choice system." Fundamentally a plan in which a range of optional school programs would be offered to diverse student groups in every community, the public schools of choice would open up a range of educational opportunity and choice so far available mainly to students attending private schools. It is not a voucher plan that is suggested; new kinds of public schools are called for. In a plea for a new approach to educational decision making which involves direct participation by all concerned parties of interest--parents, students, teachers, administrators--it is deemed necessary to open up the structure of public education to a whole new range of ideas. Several programs already in existence are discussed--such as a community-centered school, a school without walls, and an academic prep school. (JW)