ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the circumstances that led to the development of Prince George's County, Maryland's magnet-based desegregation plan. It describes the major provisions of the court order under which the plan is being implemented and the magnet programs, analyzes the continuing role of one-race schools, and offers some continuing concerns about the desegregation program. The basic question is whether it is better, educationally and developmentally, for black students to be in one-race schools throughout elementary and secondary school. Some contend that being in one-race schools may restrict black students' opportunities to receive the benefits of the magnet programs. With a citizens' group to monitor its implementation, a commitment to hire and promote more blacks, and an agreement to develop a backup busing plan, the board moved to develop and implement its Magnet and Milliken II desegregation program.
