Under Vallas, elementary school reading and math test scores, though still low, are at seven-year highs.

FORBES: Chain Saw Paul

They talked to Realtors and other parents, researched test scores and class sizes, and ended up picking Carderock Springs Elementary, in Montgomery County, Md.

FORBES: Public Choice

Only about 45% of elementary students passed state reading exams last year, and 33% passed the math test.

WSJ: Segregation Fear Sinks Charter School

This township of about 40, 000 people is serving as something of a test case as communities across the nation grapple with the prospect of arming school-security guards after 20 elementary schoolchildren were shot dead in Connecticut.

WSJ: Town Divided Over Schools and Firearms