Collaborative problem-solving research approaches have the potential to support improvement in educational policy and practice beyond instruction, by facilitating the development of a shared understanding of complex problems and creating social structures where district, community, and research partners can work together to solve them. This study…

Takes the reader step-by-step through the sequence of events required to develop an alternative educational program. (Author/JM)

Explores current school board policies for guidance and counseling content and examines whether these policies reflect the shift from position to program. Argues that many current board of education policies in place today fragment and marginalize guidance and counseling in the schools because of their emphasis on a position rather than the…

Based on his analysis of 23 communities, the author suggests six guidelines for implementing sex education programs: use small community committees rather than large ones, conduct community surveys, make sure the programs discuss sexual abstinence, provide staff training, adopt written policies, and involve parents in the programs. (RW)

The most significant finding of various commission reports is stakeholders' lack of involvement in the decisions affecting them. School board's major function is to develop processes that ensure stakeholder participation in developing and implementing a shared vision for education. Board should ensure that all competent administrators and teachers…

Consultants from Arizona State University and the Principal and Board of Trustees of the Blackwater Community School teamed together as partners and engaged in a process of school board training institutes endorsed by Public Law 95-56l which resulted in a policies and procedures manual for the operation of the school. (Author/CM)

Examines the implementation of the comprehensive school reform package enacted by the Illinois legislature in 1985. Reform initiatives have produced little controversy in the educational community. District superintendents use the reform law to effect their own, local reform agendas. Superintendents respond to reform pressures by adopting…

Schools of choice, which enable families to select among deliberately diversified schools and programs, benefit teachers. They facilitate empowerment, professionalization of practice, collaborative activity, and collegiality. The choice debate in Minnesota is reviewed, and issues confronting stakeholders are discussed. Educators should be…

The call for reform has overlooked school boards, which are crucial to effective reform. Focused attention on the role of boards of education in school reform is vital. If boards of education continue to be ignored, their potential for impeding school improvement is likely to increase. (BJV)

Outlines innovations needed in school health education programs at four levels--national, state, school district, and school site. Implications for health education program developers at each level are indicated. (SM)

In August 1987, a group of Black community leaders and activists announced a plan to create the North Division School District, a small independent unit within the Milwaukee Public Schools. The plan has received opposition from various sectors but should be implemented on at least a trial basis. (BJV)