Some of the most complicated issues facing school districts across the country revolve around resource allocation and student assignment planning. Determining school attendance boundaries, selecting sites for new schools, closing existing ones, balancing seat utilization while minimizing travel costs, and achieving socioeconomic diversity are all…

Near the shores of Lake Superior, Michigan's Houghton-Portage Township School District is known for academic leadership and strives to provide an exceptional and secure learning environment for its students. However, like many districts around the country, Houghton-Portage is not immune to the economic restrictions. In a recent effort to address…

Describes use of a "curbside critique," a weekly assessment by community volunteers and school leaders to maintain an appealing appearance of the schoolyard and building exterior. (PKP)

Outlines proactive administrative strategies to reduce conflicts between institutions of higher education and communities: (1) be open and trustworthy; (2) demonstrate economic contributions; (3) consider neighborhood newsletters; (4) invite neighborhood participation; (5) extend student-discipline procedures; (6) invest in the community; and (7)…

The advantages of volunteer programs including school business partnerships are described, among which are cutting costs, improving productivity, increasing student achievement, and expanding community support. Hints for successful implementation are offered. (MJL)

Basic factors in planning for successful school-business partnerships are reviewed, including expectations of schools, staff involvement and support, expectations of businesses, and steps for building the partnership. Some successfully operating programs are described. (MJL)

This article highlights several strategies that are crucial for successful school-community relations: (1) know your audience and build a relationship with them; (2) identify key influential constituents; (3) make budget information available and interesting; and (4) ask instead of tell. (LMI)

Explores ways to establish good communications with the public that will lead to credibility, support, and bond-referendum success. Lists 10 reasons why bond referendums fail. (LMI)

Analysis of school bond elections in South Dakota and in South Carolina reveal some common patterns that can help school leaders conduct a successful campaign. Key recommendations include the following: (1) assemble a diverse community task force; (2) focus on "yes" voters; (3) plan early and stress personal contact; (4) bring in expert…

Describes how educators in the Pearl River School District, Pearl River, New York, have implemented Total Quality Management (TQM) principles to evaluate and improve their effectiveness. Includes two charts that depict key indicators of financial and academic performance and a seven-year profile of the district's budget, enrollment, diploma rate,…

Describes some processes to prepare for times when budgetary resources may be inadequate to accomplish all of a school district's goals. A school district should address the following issues: program performance, district implications, community support, and program evaluation. (MLF)