Describes the Vehicle Scheduling Program (VSP), a computerized bus scheduling system for determining bus routes which minimize such factors as time, distance, and number of vehicles used. (LR)

Describes the ways in which block scheduling can decrease school-day interruptions, reduce discipline problems, and help students who need more time and a slower pace. Also describes block schedules' effects on students and teachers. Sidebars offer guidelines for block scheduling and selected references. (LMI)

At Moreau Elementary School in South Glens Falls, New York, each microcomputer is placed on a tall, heavy-duty cart with shelves. All computer software is stored in the school library. The mobile computer labs and centralized software system have increased the school's instructional use of computers. (MLF)

Presents time management tips, especially for board of education members, including recommendations to realize that managing time is a skill, develop a more accurate sense of how one's time is spent, examine and reestablish goals, learn to say no, organize files and information, and master the telephone. (Author/JM)

Describes how a school district created a more efficient bus routing system with the help of two industrial engineers and the district computer. (IRT)

School libraries are changing. Since 1988, Library Power, a $40 million program sponsored by the DeWitt Wallace Reader's Digest fund, has helped 700 elementary- and middle-school libraries in 19 communities improve collections, refurbish facilities, develop curriculum, and provide technical training for school personnel. (MLH)

When discussing discipline, educators must separate trivial-but-annoying discipline problems from serious or criminal behavior and define vague terminology. The school's informal and formal curricula, instructional styles, and scheduling must also be examined to determine when the school itself is at fault. Carbondale (Illinois) Elementary…

Standardized bus schedules allow a more efficient use of buses and drivers. Cites experiences of districts using the four-bell schedule where high schools open first, followed by middle schools, and then elementary schools with two opening times. A computer routing system can be used to route buses more efficiently and draw school attendance…

Boards of education have the responsibility to ensure that the school schedule is viewed as a means to improve school instruction. Lists important questions to ask administrators concerning scheduling. (MLF)

Seven suggestions are provided to help superintendents plan and conduct more cohesive school board meetings: (1) research all proposals; (2) schedule time for discussion; (3) anticipate questions; (4) include background, rationale, and options for proposals; (5) present reports lucidly; (6) allow for independent exploration; and (7) follow up on…

A family-friendly school incorporates many aspects of school reform going on throughout the country. Parents would be allowed choice in selecting the school, the teacher, calendar, and schedule. Normal operation hours for a school could become 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Lists 12 sources for additional information. (MLF)

Describes common characteristics of effective leaders, such as insight, strong interpersonal skills, self-growth, flexibility, and communications. Includes examples of effective leadership provided by an assistant superintendent, a middle-school principal, and an elementary-school principal. (PKP)

To make sure students' time in school is used efficiently and advantageously, some simple ways to improve time use are suggested. It is important to assess time use to ensure that a school schedules enough time for basics, is using learning time and teaching time well, and is not duplicating subject matter. (MD)