Includes bibliographical references and index.

History and context -- Searching for needles in the high school haystack -- Exploring a new constellation -- Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, Aurora, IL -- School Without Walls, Washington, DC -- Central High School Magnet Career Academy, Louisville, KY -- Liberal Arts and Science Academy, Austin, TX -- Jones College Prep, Chicago, IL -- Benjamin Franklin High School, New Orleans, LA -- Townsend Harris High School, Queens, NY -- Pine View School for the Gifted, Osprey, FL -- Oxford Academy, Cypress, CA -- Bergen County Academies, Hackensack, NJ -- Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, Annandale, VA -- Similarities and differences -- Dilemmas and challenges -- Conclusions -- Appendix I: Selection process and school list -- Appendix II: Survey questions.

What is the best education for exceptionally able and high-achieving youngsters? Can the United States strengthen its future intellectual leadership, economic vitality, and scientific prowess without sacrificing equal opportunity? This title discusses how these schools work - and their critical role in nurturing the country's brightest students.