FROM THE PRESIDENT OF the United States to the president of the local parent-teacher association (PTA), everyone is talking about schools. More than ever before people recognize the value of a quality education for all Americans. The demand for well-educated, highly skilled workers is growing. Almost one-third of the new jobs created between now and the turn of the century will require a college degree.

Education provides more than skills for careers, however. It teaches self-discipline, creativity, and patience. It prepares people to cope with change. It is invaluable for citizens who must understand and deal with complex social and political issues in a democratic society. As Abraham Lincoln said, "I view [education] as the most important subject which we as a people can be engaged in."

Americans like to think that they share Lincoln's feelings about education. They want to believe that their elementary and secondary schools...