This multiple-site case study examined distributed leadership practices of three middle school principals, using observations, interviews, and document analysis. Findings disclosed that the principals built on the interdisciplinary teaming structure to develop empowering organizational structures that promoted democratic governance. Employing…

This follow-up study presents findings from 11 structured interviews that were conducted with principals engaged in a conversion from a large comprehensive high school to six small schools. Key findings are (a) the greatest barrier to improvement was entrenched instructional patterns and (b) goals of college readiness and social/emotional…

De-departmentalizing the high school into smaller integrated quads would make possible the necessary frequent review and revision of the curriculum and facilitate change with greater ease. Inflexibility could give way to creativity and provide a humanistic environment to meet the needs of adolescents. (Author)

Effectiveness of substitute teachers is related to the implementation of strategy for their utilization. If substitutes are expected to do more than control students, then teachers must leave lesson plans, activities, and materials that can be used by anyone. Cooperation and coordination are essential for substitutes' success. (MD)

Effective management requires the decentralization of management functions. That's the basic premise of this article, which uses the term management interchangeably with organization, or better yet, leadership. (Editors)

A study of five Vermont high schools suggests that change must grow from seeds already planted in different schools, fed by a constant flow of human energy interacting across all school organizational levels. Certain patterns, such as top-down or bottom-up change, are not as interactive as systemic efforts. (MLH)

Develops a descriptive model of school organizational patterns using the concept of complexity of environment, and explores the implications different organizational patterns have for students and teachers. (Author)

Large schools have a tall organizational structure with long chains of command and limited control for "low-level" staff, including teachers and principals. To resolve this problem, two alternative structures are suggested: a dual structure involving spheres of administrative and professional responsibility and a flat structure featuring…

The NSPRA is dedicated to helping practicing school administrators establish and pursue meaningful programs in public relations. (Editor)

Maintains that secondary schools often assign their counselors major responsibility for the gatekeeping and custodial functions associated with student scheduling. Recommends as an alternative having counselors advise students and others needing counseling while paraprofessionals and clerical personnel handle the administrative duties. (Author/PGD)

The author suggests a return to the original concept of the principal as master teacher. He describes how the principal can create a school environment where learning is inquiry oriented and students are persons. (Editor/AS)

Research indicates that school organization factors may be as important in explaining and managing school discipline as classroom techniques. The key to developing an environment conducive to good student deportment is a total school effort facilitated by a highly visible principal. Includes 11 references. (MLH)

Long associated with planned meetings, the author makes a plea for the involvement of participants to ensure program interest. (Editor)