The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education developed draft standards for Professional Development Schools (PDSs). This article discusses the PDS concept and origins, examines why PDSs are important, and argues for standards as a means of supporting the PDS work and holding PDSs accountable for multiple results. The draft standards…

The relationship between education and economic growth is outlined, and the Committee for Economic Development (CED) is described. Instrumental in the formulation of CED's report, "Investing in Our Children," was a series of papers from the academic community. A selection of these background papers that appear in this journal are introduced. (MT)

The shortcomings of America's public schools ripple through society at large. When schools are viewed as producers of human capital, their product is individuals prepared for additional education and the world of work. The role the business community should have in the schools is discussed. (MT)

This paper reviews research on the dynamics of school culture and environment and their effect on the quality of teaching and the effectiveness of schools. The way schools are, the corporate experience, and effective schools are explored. Recommendations, including roles for the business community, are offered. (MT)