One of the perennial problems with universal education is the diversity in achievement it brings to the average classroom. Educational structures are needed that not only accept individual differences but also offer explicit recognition of their value to a democratic society. Young people growing up in the information society are going to have to know how to locate information when they need it, and how to analyze, synthesize, interpret, and apply information as it relates to their individual interests and potentials. The long-term improvement of education must be achieved by slow, complex actions built up through community support and strong leadership at the local level. Lifelong learning must be the goal for all educational systems. With this imperative, the rise of community colleges is significant. The challenge to community colleges is to prepare students for their future as lifelong learners and to instill positive attitudes toward learning. Such colleges can demonstrate to students that they are capable of learning and that learning is a useful, satisfying skill that will serve them well throughout their lives. Community colleges can provide the cognitive skills that serve as the basic tools for lifelong learning. (JD)