Providing a directory of "new" ("free" or "alternative") schools in the United States, this publication begins with a discussion of the present educational system and what the alternative schools are trying to do about it. The criteria for inclusion in the listing, providing a glimpse of the shared philosophy of the schools, includes absence of institutionalized coercion as regards both behavior and curriculum, de-emphasis on traditional curriculum concerns, elimination of dependence on competition and extrinsic motivation, emphasis on individual abilities and character of teachers, and elimination of age and grade level separation of students. The directory lists over 300 schools together with address, phone, and some basic facts--whether day or boarding, elementary or high school, how many students, what age ranges, how many staff and whether they are full or part time, how much tuition and whether scholarships are available, whether there is parental participation, when founded, and other particular characteristics. Appended are a list of useful publications for those interested in alternative schools, other useful addresses, a bibliography, a statement on public aid to alternative schools, and a list of regional education switchboards which have information about alternative schools. (SH)