With a decreasing federal presence, the public library must proactively develop its own presence in the National Information Infrastructure. This article examines current federal policy and new roles for libraries in ensuring connectivity, and offers recommendations for implementing both. Contains a summary of policy initiatives and strategies for…

Colorado Springs (Colorado) School District 11 was the first to offer advertising opportunities via its school buses. This action was taken after new investment policies, self-insurance, contracting out, and salary freezes proved inadequate to offset voters' reluctance to increase taxes. Opposition was limited, due to strong community support and…

Presents a three-year case study of a Chapter 1 Schoolwide Project's (SWP) implementation and effects. The school environment prior to SWP, the program's development, and results are discussed. During the years of SWP status, teacher development, parental involvement, student attendance, and academic achievement all reveal dramatic improvements.…

Describes a culturally specific rites of passage program designed for African American youth in foster care as an adjunct to an independent living program. Presents preliminary evaluative data on this program. Discusses future directions in culturally specific programs. (SNR)

Describes a principal's frustrating, but ultimately successful 3-year effort to convert a Virginia elementary school to a year-round schedule. Now in its third year, the school boasts students with higher standardized test scores, better attendance, and fewer discipline referrals than their traditional-calendar counterparts. (MLH)

The five campuses of Cerro Coso Community College (CA) are located in Mojave Desert country, where many potential students live 100 miles or more from the nearest college site. This document describes lessons learned and accomplishments associated with development of its virtual campus, online courses, and online associate degree programs. (PGS)

Describes elementary and secondary school projects in Victoria, Australia using telematics and interactive television. Provides an overview of telematics management and implementation and discusses lessons learned, professional communication, teaching materials, and future developments. Outlines programs enriching primary school science,…

Describes the successful Kids for Peace movement, which electronically links students from schools around the world in a week of prayer, study and good works. States that a school can register for the pilgrimage by e-mailing the Web site. Highlights the effectiveness of connecting schools via the Internet-it is cost-effective, free to use, and…

Discusses the importance of urban forests and the urban forestry (arboculture) career study certificate program at Blue Ridge Community College in Virginia, which begins in fall 2002. (Contains 19 references.) (NB)

Describes a field-based, post-baccalaureate teacher education program developed by a college of education and the local school district to help meet the shortage of urban teachers. The program offers an intensive route to teacher licensure for people with degrees outside of education, preparing candidates for urban contexts and offering…

Four essays by policy analysts approach programs for school-age children from differing perspectives, each identifying the key forces that influence the policy climate and directions for the future. (Author/SLD)

The recent escalation of zero-tolerance weapons policies was predicated on a (mis)perceived increase in school-related shootings. When administering such policies, principals should reaffirm the policy message, clarify consequences, be careful with evidence, clear their calendars, prepare a communication plan, and coordinate responses to the…

Describes development of the Sure Start program in the United Kingdom, focusing on the level of government support, policy development, and implementation. Maintains that the program is a prime example of "joined-up government" and evidence-based policy making. Outlines the program's evaluation strategy, including indicators of success.…

Describes rural implementation of the Empowerment Zones and Enterprise Communities program, which combines flexible long-term financing with strategic planning and performance benchmarking to empower impoverished communities to address structural problems comprehensively. Impressive 3-year results include job creation; improved community services;…

Suggests ways school librarians can implement a free-choice reading program to motivate students to read. Discusses developing a trusting relationship with teachers and administrators; suggesting only small changes initially; involving coaches and activity advisers; asking principals to encourage staff members to designate time for pleasure…