A short 27 months ago, two groups of U.S. states were each awarded more than $175 million to design, develop, and pilot test a new generation of assessments (U.S. Department of Education, 2010). These new tests will replace assessments in English language arts and mathematics that are currently in use within state and federal accountability…

Last year Marian Leibowitz presented workshops in 27 states on improving instruction for gifted and talented students. In this interview she gives an overview of what she has seen in programs around the country. (Author/MLF)

The Enrichment Triad Model (Triad) and the Revolving Door Identification model (RDIM) form the TRIAD/RDIM program model for gifted and talented students. The article outlines the key features of the program. (MD)

Presents a procedure for curriculum change and textbook adoption using a step-by-step decision-making process. (MD)

Two cornerstones to professional growth may be the right of educators to say "I don't know how" and their use of the appropriate planning tools for learning new skills and knowledge. (Author)

Presents a four-step process for staff members interested in designing their own mastery learning program. (Author/JM)

Successful implementation of new programs requires planning, an appropriate strategy, and staff development. (Author)

In 1985 the Rockefeller Foundation encouraged the development of a collaborative program between three institutions that look at how teachers teach art and evaluate what their students learn. (MD)

An observer of Japanese teacher centers reports on their purpose, scope, and activities--using British and American centers as a frame of reference. (Author)

The basic principles of program survival include one person assuming responsibility for a new program, continuing staff development, and altering a new program to benefit and improve student achievement. (MLF)

Addresses attitudinal and logistical roadblocks to launching social and emotional learning programs. Debunks ideas that such programs are either faddish, ineffective, "New-Age," or detractions from academic learning. Stresses conceptual origins in the work of Daniel Goleman, Howard Gardner, and Robert Sylwester. Notes educators must work…

Describes a suburban Pennsylvania school district's efforts to develop a coordinated educational campaign about sexual harassment. Administrators awakened a cautious school board; applied for and received a Goals 2000 grant; trained staff; enlightened students, using age-appropriate materials; and motivated the community to participate. (MLH)

Describes an inservice program used by the Los Angeles School District for training school administrators, program coordinators, and instructional staff members in developing plans for implementing and evaluating instructional programs. (JG)