The Prediction of Quality Education in Mississippi Public Schools.

To predict the educational quality of programs in 150 school districts, this study used 34 predictor variables in a multiple regression analysis. Dependent variables used to represent educational quality in a district were (1) the percent of rejections by the local Selective Service Boards for mental reasons, (2) the percent of elementary and secondary dropouts, (3) the mean scores on various portions of the American College Test, (4) the percent of graduates that enrolled in college, and (5) a holding power index. Included in the predictor variables used were (1) seven measures of the nature and socioeconomic status of the community, (2) six measures of the instructional program, (3) ten measures of the nature of the school staff, (4) four measures of the structure of the school district, and (5) seven measures of noninstructional expenditures. The authors summarize the results of each regression and present a general summary of their findings. The implications of the study and some recommendations for those school districts desiring to improve educational quality conclude the presentation. (DN)