George Lucas promotes education reform, DC charters so popular 8 parochials may convert, Univ Akron tackling 40% minority graduation rate …

Education Week: D.C. Parochial Schools May Become Charters - As remedy for the problems of falling enrollments and rising operating deficits for urban parochial schools, eight Catholic campuses in DC may be converted into secular charter schools run by an independent operator. Most of the schools’ students come from low-income non-Catholic families.

American Digital Networks, MD: Filmmaker Brings ‘The Force’ to Education Reform - At the Dreamforce 2007 conference, George Lucas will share his personal passion and commitment to education and the mission of The George Lucas Educational Foundation, an organization dedicated to creating a country where innovation in education is the rule, not the exception. Lucas will look to encourage conference attendees to more actively support education reform.

Akron Beacon Journal, OH: Teens tackle high school & college - A University of Akron program debuted this fall, giving at-risk students the means to excel in high school and college. It is a nontraditional high school that serves a targeted audience: average to good students from lower-income, often minority families who would be the first in their families to go to college.

PRNewswire, NY: New National Study Shows Increase in Schools; More Accountability - According to a new study conducted by the Center for Education Reform, the number of charter schools opening this school year is up 8% from last year, and more than 4,100 charter schools currently serve over 1.2 million students across the country. Despite continuing opposition and debilitating laws, more parents than ever are choosing charter schools over conventional public schools when it comes to educating their children.

Gainesville Times, GA: State Moves Deadline for Vouchers - The Georgia Department of Education has extended the deadline for students receiving the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship to be enrolled and attending one of the state-approved private schools.