Attempting to reconcile theory with facts, this booklet explores equity and quality issues involved with parental choice in Massachusetts. Following an overview and summary, chapters 2 and 3 examine the theory and practice of intradistrict public school choice. Chapter 2 examines the controlled choice plans adopted by cities, arguing that racial balance goals strongly limit parental choice. Families who can afford to exercise true choice flee the system, weakening the schools and exacerbating the racial and social segregation dictated by residential plans. Chapter 3 examines whether market pressure will spur school improvement. Although eliminating racial balance controls is a good first step, many parents will remain uninformed and are unlikely to demand academically superior schooling. As chapter 4 suggests, interdistrict choice is desirable, but unlikely to create a competitive market or solve the problem of poor schools. Chapter 5 discusses educational vouchers--choice that includes private and parochial options--and outlines a possible course of action for Massachusetts and other states. Vouchers should be tested with a 5-year demonstration project financed with private funds. The book includes chapter notes and an index. (MLH)