On August 16, many of us who read The New York Times were intrigued to see a story datelined Englewood, N.J., entitled "Forced to Pick a Major in High School," on the front page. The story points out that Englewood is one of "a number of school districts around the country experimenting with high school majors." Students entering Dwight Morrow High School in September will be expected to select a major in sports management, fine and performing arts, health sciences, international studies and global commerce, communications and new media, or liberal arts. The major will determine what elective courses they take in addition to the state-mandated courses required of all students. Michael Polizzi, Assistant Superintendent, was quoted as saying the district carefully researched future demand for jobs and college programs, and surveyed student interests, before settling on these areas for majors. According to the article, the district has spent about $250,000 so far on the new specialties, hiring five new teachers and setting up advisory boards for each specialty including performing artists, doctors and lawyers.

The Times article does not say so, but this initiative is only part of the comprehensive changes which are taking place in the public schools. In February, we reported on the commendation which the district had received from State education officials for its progress in integrating the Academies@Englewood with the conventional Dwight Morrow High School. Students in the Academies already work in specialized areas, so the new majors are an important step in this process.