The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is a federal program that provides free and reduced priced lunch to millions of low-income children in urban schools. Empirical research shows mixed results on the physical and nutritional health of urban students participating in the program. However, a considerable limitation of this literature is that it…

Extends the findings of a study of relationships of some educational inputs and reading performance of disadvantaged California Title I pupils, utilizing a highly simplified model of the compensatory education process. (JM)

Examines effects of several federal categorical programs and civil rights mandates on schools/school districts. Concluded that federal and state policies for special populations have (1) improved and expanded services for target students, and (2) increased the structural complexity of schools and districts. The study also found that overtime costs…

Holds that, despite claims to the contrary, Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act does not provide compensatory education for disadvantaged students. Proposes a model for improving minority educational opportunities based on a reversal in Federal policy, which would reward school districts with financial aid for increased student…

Outlines progress made toward equal education for the disadvantaged under Title I. Warns that in times of economic austerity and with the absence of Federal regulation, local school systems will find it easy to use Federal funds for general educational expenditures, rather than for those who need compensatory services. (GC)

Describes the accomplishments and shortcomings of educational reform movements from the early 1960s to the present. Concludes with priorities for curricular and instructional reform in urban schools that emphasize cognitive and developmental learning over fragmented and remedial learning. (CJS)