The premise of this special series is that evidence-based interventions and systems change are key foci for building capacity to serve children. In this article, we preface the series by introducing issues relevant to understanding the interplay of these foci and by describing the articles and their contributions. Common elements across these…

Contends that discussion concerning influence of culture as it relates to psychoeducational needs of African Americans is plagued by three major problems: profound confusion over connotative meanings of "culture" and nature of cultural differences; writers' propensity for undifferentiated stereotyping of African Americans; and influence of…

Recent federal initiatives and efforts within education and psychology professional organizations have contributed to an increased focus on scientifically based practices in education. Although interventions are available to educators, there is a need to enhance systems capacity through identification, selection, and implementation of appropriate…

Notes that graduate training programs face challenges, as well as opportunities, in fulfillment of their responsibilities to prepare school psychologists for entry into professional practice. Examines nature and origins of potential changes facing school psychology and discusses adequacy of current training programs. Discusses future implications…

Pediatric school psychologists, experts in services to children with medical conditions, are needed in light of changes in public policy and educational practice. The role of a pediatric school psychologist might include advocating for childrens' social and educational needs, evaluating efficacy of intervention, and facilitating effective…

In the context of a broader focus on prevention and school psychology, there is no question that Elias, Zins, Graczyk, and Weissberg (2003) raise key issues in the movement toward a sensible approach to creating school and classroom environments that are responsive to children's developmental needs. The Elias et al. article argues convincingly for…

Major historical themes of the childrens rights movement dealing with education are briefly traced. The meaning and significance of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child are considered as they relate to education. The roles of school psychology in future advances in children's rights are discussed. (SLD)

Six articles within a miniseries on children's rights and education are discussed, with emphasis on the necessity and opportunity to advance children's rights through education. The importance of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is clarified. Conclusions and recommendations summarize the school psychologist's role. (SLD)

Using the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child as a standard, adult obligations to children from birth to age 12 years are outlined. For each right of protection or nurturance, practical recommendations are given for school psychologists to maximize the development of children in their care. (SLD)

Sections of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) that concern education and children's mental health in educational settings are reviewed. Comparison of the existing status of children with the convention mandates and literature on children's rights indicates that society falls short in protecting children. (SLD)

Adverse consequences of contemporary modes of work, child rearing, and schooling for human and child development and the quality of life; the potential of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child to relieve some of these consequences; and ways educators can improve child development are reviewed. (SLD)

A summary of findings on consequences of maltreatment in early childhood and a discussion of major developmental issues during infancy and toddlerhood are presented. Salient features of sensitive and insensitive parenting during those periods and implications of this information for school psychologists are discussed. (JAZ)