Alioto discusses the need to reform San Francisco schools. Citing a study by Stanford professor Sanford Dornbusch, Alioto asserts that the school district has allowed an environment of lowered expectations. He argues that a graduation standard is an ineffective tool, and that standards must instead be established beginning in primary grades. To do so, Alioto recommends devoting energies to teaching all children to read, and to keeping the public informed about school system's excellent programs. He concludes by emphasizing that the district's staff should play the role of advocates for the students.