Argues that elementary and middle school art education should not exclusively focus on creating art but should also include ample amounts of art history, criticism, and aesthetics. It introduces the Prairie Visions model for professional and curriculum planning and development. (GR)

Reports on the experiences of a Fort Collins (Colorado) elementary school that uses the Core Knowledge Curriculum (CKC). It explains how CKC promotes educational quality by eliminating curriculum gaps, legitimizing the grading system to reflect achievement, and building on previously learned material. E. D. Hirsch's book "Cultural…

Discusses the successful use of Core Knowledge Curriculum in one inner-city elementary school in San Antonio (Texas) that had previously reflected low student achievement, inconsistent attendance, and student behavioral problems. Improvements in these conditions as revealed through teacher observations are highlighted. (GR)

Presents observations of a principal, a teacher, and a fifth-grade student at a Baltimore (Maryland) elementary school about how the Core Knowledge Curriculum (CKC) successfully works in their school. All three reveal the success of CKC in creating student interest and parent involvement. (GR)

Presents research highlights indicating the success of the Core Knowledge Curriculum in raising test scores, building teacher enthusiasm, and lessening the need to reteach concepts at the beginning of the school year. Preliminary results from several elementary schools are highlighted. (GR)