On April 1, the Supreme Court will hear arguments filed on behalf of three white applicants rejected by the University of Michigan's undergraduate and law school programs. The plaintiffs allege that they were unfairly discriminated against because students of color with lower test scores and grades were admitted.

The White House has joined in filing a brief opposing the University's admissions procedures. "At their core," said President Bush, "the Michigan policies amount to a quota system that unfairly rewards or penalizes prospective students, based solely on their race."

University officials point out that they do not utilize quotas - which were outlawed in 1978 - and that race is but one of many factors evaluated when considering prospective students. Applicants are weighed primarily on academic achievement, but are also assessed by additional criteria including athletic activities, alumni "legacy" status, economic background, geographic location, community service and personal essays.

The Court's ruling, expected in June, could be aimed at the University's admissions procedures. Many observers anticipate, however, that the Court will weigh in on the larger issue of whether race can be a factor in admissions at all. A "no" decision would have far-reaching consequences not only for colleges and universities but for all of this country's efforts to weave diversity into the fabric of society.

Should special treatment based on race be singled out for exclusion when special treatment for athletic achievement, "legacy" status and other academically unrelated factors are not? How does this country's legacy of racial discrimination impact the quality of K-12 education and our children's preparation for college? Is affirmative action still needed to assure equal access to higher education and its benefits?