In this book, the 11 members of the Koret Task Force on K-12 Education provide a broad overview of the U.S. education system, examining its structure and operation, identifying key problems that hinder its performance, and offering perspectives on the requirements of genuine reform. The 11 chapters include: (1) "American Traditions of Education" (Diane Ravitch); (2) "The System" (John E. Chubb); (3) "Achievement in American Schools" (Herbert J. Walberg); (4) "Spending on Schools" (Eric A. Hanushek); (5) "If Families Matter Most, Where Do Schools Come in?" (Caroline M. Hoxby); (6) "Getting Better Teachers--and Treating Them Right" (Chester E. Finn, Jr.); (7) "Teachers Unions and the Public Schools" (Terry M. Moe); (8) "Curriculum and Competence" (E.D. Hirsch, Jr.); (9) "Standards and Accountability" (Williamson M. Evers); (10) "Choice in American Education" (Paul E. Peterson); and (11) "What Is Public about Public Education?" (Paul T. Hill). (SM)