School districts tend to want to divide and conquer. Go to school board meetings and demand a hearing. Surf the Internet. Reform groups aren't the only resource. The Internet has become a key ally for reformers.
Web sites have research.
Web sites also tell you about curricula, textbooks and tactics that may hurt a child's education. The site has a special section called Publications for Parents. Be prepared to be ignored, but be persistent. Getting the attention of school officials is just the start. For instance, in a large-scale meeting, they have techniques for building consensus.