In 2023, the U.S. Department of Education announced the "Raise the Bar: Lead the World" initiative to use decades of research and professional experience to transform public education and advance education equity. There are three focus areas: (1) Achieve Academic Excellence; (2) Boldly Improve Learning Conditions; and (3) Create Pathways…

Teachers have the greatest school-based effect on the achievement of any child in their classrooms, but highly effective principals can positively affect the achievement of every student in their schools. The difference between a highly effective principal and an average one is equal to two-to-seven months of extra learning per year for each child…

This article dealt with methods for making substitute teaching more effective. The purpose was to articulate a sequential method for maximizing the effectiveness of substitute teaching while providing substitutes with a comprehensive method for diligently and flexibly earning respect and using reflection to continually improve substitute teaching.…

The Edward Jones Company recently initiated financial sponsorship of team-based competitions in six undergraduate business core classes at Baylor University. The challenges were chosen to take place in an introductory freshman business class, Managerial Accounting, Principles of Marketing, Corporate Finance, Operations Management, and Strategic…

The past few decades have seen substantial debate over the effectiveness of preparation programs for school administrators. A program is suggested that is based on the Texas superintendent certificate of 1994. Eight standards addressing superintendent performance were developed by the American Association of School Administrators: (1)…

Describes the Diagnostic Executive Competency Analysis System (DECAS) developed by researchers at the University of Texas (Austin). Applies assessment center methods conventionally used for selection and screening purposes to formative needs-based professional development activities. Presents DECAS within the framework of the U.S. Multi-Site…

Describes the Executive Educators' Round Table (EXERT), developed to meet the professional development needs of superintendents in large urban and suburban school systems, and Team 21, Teaming Educational Administrators with Expert Managers for the Twentieth Century, a cooperative program with private sector leaders. (JOW)

The Administrator Portfolio Appraisal System implemented by the Judson (Texas) Independent School District addressed current systems' weaknesses by stressing self-assessment, collegial-evaluation processes, refocusing and planning, and informed practice. The program promoted unity and trust among all administrators, fostered open dialog, helped…

School administrators greeted the Texas legislature's 1984 mandate for professional growth plans with mixed reactions. The Management Profile, an instrument developed at the Texas A&M University Principals' Center, helps administrators assess their strengths and weaknesses and build growth plans addressing their own situations. This article…

Describes the Examination for Certification of Educators in Texas (ExCET) required of all Texans seeking certification as principals, supervisors, or superintendents. Discusses certain test controversies (including test development by an out-of-state firm), the quality of administraor training in Texas, test objectives, and the future of ExCET.…

This report documents a conference on the conceptual framework underlying the management of Teacher Corps Projects. The conference, designed to provide participants with training in specific skills pertinent to their responsibilities, was attended by school administrators, program development specialists, community coordinators, community council…

This paper presents a proposal for an alternative principal-certification program, which is to be operated by Tarleton State University (Texas) in collaboration with 10 independent Texas school districts, 4 regional educational service centers, 2 professional associations, and 1 foundation. The New Century Educational Leadership Program (NCELP) is…