If you have a grandma around, ask if she remembers when we didn't try teaching babies to swim or little kids to learn a foreign language. It turns out to be the same with Algebra. Read more

High dropout rates, sinking test scores, low attendance: who gets it right in dealing with these urban problems? It turns out to be those communities that have found a way to have small schools.

Chicago and New York have successfully divided large high schools into small units serving 400 or fewer. Sacramento has successfully converted ALL its high schools to small schools. Read more

An experimental form of currency has made a difference in Chicago's worst schools. It's not new, but I hadn't heard about it at all, and was surprised to see it featured in YES! A Journal of Positive Futures, a very upbeat venture of David Korten and others. The currency is called Time Dollars, and it's a scheme hatched by the distinguished lawyer Edgar Cahn. Read more

WorkAbility Follow-Up

We have often passed on trends and tips from Special Edge, published tri-annually by CalSTAT (California Services for Technical Assistance and Training) at Sonoma State. The front page of its recent issue features follow-up on WorkAbility, the public program that helps Special Ed kids make the transition from school to work. Read more