The Lone Star Foundation Conference
Public Education Reform in Texas: Comprehensive Progress Report
Austin, Texas - December 7-8, 2000

The Lone Star Foundation is pleased to welcome you to the conference and recognizes your participation as commitment to improving public education in Texas.

The conference is designed to offer a review of education reforms and to equip you with the information required to determine the next steps we must take to accelerate the improvement of public schools. Critical and constructive information will be provided by state and national education experts - on teaching, learning, accountability, organization and governance.

This conference is unique. It assembles independent analysts to provide a thorough and objective examination of education reforms introduced in Texas since the historic "Blue Ribbon Task Force." After a decade of improving public schools, it is time to evaluate progress, set higher goals for improvement, and draw up a new blueprint to ensure all students have the opportunity to acquire the academic knowledge and skills needed for economic and social success.

This conference is unprecedented. It is sponsored by an independent organization that has no relationship with any educational entity, receives no government funding, and has no vested interest in any educational product or process. Founded in 1996, the Austin-based Lone Star Foundation is a "think tank" devoted to researching and reporting activities of state government. The foundation is grounded on Constitutional and conservative principles - beliefs that small government, personal responsibility, and private enterprise are essential for the well being of all Texans. The primary activity of the foundation is publication of a weekly subscription newsletter - The Lone Star Report. The foundation also periodically publishes reports on education, taxation and the economy, as well as conducting occasional policy seminars.

The Lone Star Foundation has invited all state legislators and office holders to this conference and underwritten all expenses for elected representatives or their staff. A small fee has been asked for registration of organizations to help offset conference expenses. The foundation has financed this conference to stimulate greater improvement of public schools and to contribute to the education of all children in Texas.

We would like to express appreciation for the individuals who have volunteered to serve as speakers and moderators for the conference. We especially thank the individuals who have provided original research reports and written presentations for the conference. The notebook materials provided to all registrants will expand public discussions, long after the conference has ended, about the most effective ways to enhance teaching and learning in Texas Public Schools.

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512-339-9771

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