Divides curriculum development into 10 steps to aid administrators at the local level in planning for whole systems or for single courses. (JW)

Describes a six-step process for conducting a needs assessment in the schools. The approach is feasible and inexpensive as it allows each school to develop its own instrument. (Author/IRT)

Middle level students have unique needs that can be met by a school advising program. Outlines the goals and a timeline for implementing an advisory program along with nine components essential to a successful guidance and advisory program. (MLF)

Offers suggestions for gifted education programs in rural school districts, based on practices used in some eastern Iowa districts. Discusses such considerations as program planning, program implementation, program staffing, expanding or supplementing the regular curriculum for gifted students, and facilitating interaction among participating…

An accommodation is an adjustment to an activity or setting that equalizes a learning situation for persons with disabilities. Accommodations are required under the anti-discriminatory 1973 Rehabilitation Act (Section 504) and the Americans with Disabilities Act. An accommodation should not alter an assignment's essential purpose. (MLH)

In this interview, a high school art teacher explains why her initial enthusiasm for block scheduling evaporated. Problems arose with foreign-language instruction, science labs, lesson planning, field trips, space utilization, supplies, and overenrollment in elective subjects like music and art. Teachers had little control or administrative…

This planning and development guide suggests that careful, comprehensive, long range planning combined with gradual program implementation and effective administrative leadership can create responsive middle school programs. Sample sequential objective charts and activity lists are included. (DCS)