The lead article of this pamphlet examines means of motivating public school (especially high school) students to accept greater academic challenge, without relying on budget increases. Measures being applied in school systems nationwide include special diplomas for students who meet exceptional standards in prescribed curricula; "weighted grading" systems that make difficult courses more attractive by raising their grade-point values; in elementary schools, stricter retention/promotion policies based on learning objectives, with remedial programs for retained students; greater academic eligibility requirements for extracurricular activities, with assistance for students who have trouble meeting the requirements; flexible but well-enforced attendance policies; more frequent homework assignments; and finally, awards and/or public recognition for a variety of student achievements. Other brief articles discuss (1) the role of public schools in helping students prepare for the Scholastic Aptitude Test; (2) ways to encourage teachers to identify and report child abuse; and (3) prohibition of firearms in schools. (MCG)