Some small steps toward big change
First grader Jalil Phillips pored over his little homemade book, struggling to read each word. The biggest one on the cover was a doozy: hibernate.
( By Dale Mezzacappa, Inquirer Staff Writer, 12/05/2002 03:01 AM EST)

2 Cherry Hill schools test for lead
Unacceptably high lead levels have been found in two of the township's elementary schools, officials said yesterday. Earlier this week, elevated lead levels were discovered in faucets, drinking fountains and sinks at the Kilmer and Mann Schools. Upon retesting yesterday - the initial readings were taken in early November - most of the levels were found to be safe, but the district is taking no chances.
( By Kristen A. Graham, Inquirer Staff Writer, 12/05/2002 03:01 AM EST)

Girl files suit over discipline by school in off-campus fight
A 16-year-old student, who was transferred out of a Philadelphia magnet school last month for a fight she had off school grounds and after hours, has become the first to legally challenge the district's new disciplinary policy.
( By Susan Snyder, Inquirer Staff Writer, 12/04/2002 03:01 AM EST)

In 2 major cases, justices revisiting race and college
The Supreme Court set the stage yesterday for what could be a landmark ruling on affirmative action, agreeing to decide whether universities can use race as a factor in admitting students.
( By Shannon McCaffrey, Inquirer Washington Bureau, 12/03/2002 03:01 AM EST)

African Americans hit hard by uproar over naming a school
Those who oppose naming a new high school after civil-rights leader Bayard Rustin, a native son, say their opposition has nothing to do with his race.
( By Benjamin Y. Lowe, Inquirer Staff Writer, 12/03/2002 03:01 AM EST)

Rutgers president outlines his agenda
Inadequate funding, crowded conditions, and the proposed merger of the state's research universities will be top priorities for the new president of Rutgers University.
( By Peter Saharko, Associated Press, 12/03/2002 03:01 AM EST)

For these old classmates, reunions are just routine
They are old men now, but they tease each other like schoolboys, poking fun at growing bellies and graying hair. Occasionally, one will whip out a black-and-white photo, and they will all move tighter to marvel at their younger selves. A lot has happened since they graduated from Northeast High School in 1950.
( By Natalie Pompilio, Inquirer Staff Writer, 12/03/2002 03:01 AM EST)