Teacher expectations are a powerful factor in the attainment of basic skills. If teachers expect their students to attain basic skills, they are more likely to do so. If teachers do not expect students to do well, that expectation is often fulfilled. (Author/CM)

Describes the process for curriculum development effectively used in a rural Alaskan school district and currently being applied in another recently created rural school district. Suggests its potential for adoption in other rural school districts is great. (AH)

A 1981 needs survey distributed to 587 superintendents (37.5 percent returned) of all small (1,000 students or less) K-12 Texas school districts shows lack of money to be the most critical need. A critical teacher shortage (especially in mathematics and science) and curriculum development and supervision are other important concerns. (LC)