The U.S. is in an economic race, competing with countries around the globe. The outcome of that contest will have a lot to do with our schools.

Everyone agrees that teachers are the single most important factor in student performance. But what makes a great teacher? And how do we best recruit, retain and reward them?

The education system is a national and state economic crisis. Future graduates will not be able to compete for jobs in our global economy. Are alternative schools the answer?

NCLB has dramatically changed the landscape of our schools. Due to be reauthorized next year, it's likely to top the agenda of the next President. What is its future?

School finance is one of the most vigorously debated issues in education reform. One of the key questions: should the federal government pump more money into America's schools?

Listen to what a few of the nation's top education experts have to say.

Watch excerpts from the two-day conference of educators hosted by New York Public Television.