Examines turbulence in U.S. education, explaining how today's changing educational policy environment causes new frustrations. Suggests that federal, state, local, and site- level are current sources of indecision and struggle that have implications for today's choice of direction concerning inquiry and leadership for public education. Discusses four "turbulances" (how to do it, who is doing it, who benefits, and who prevails) and examines implications and ideology. (SM)