Since the turn of the century, U.S. education policies have focused on accountability and student progress. Two major pieces of federal legislation--No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEA 2004)--pose several legal issues that educators must contemplate as they strive to be…

More and more educators are being charged with liability in court. Hence community educators need greater understanding of liability and need to know how to avoid being defendants in litigation. Ignorance of the law is no defense, even though it is often difficult to know what the law is. While there is a tension between protecting the rights of…

An educational law professor reflects on the context of sexual harassment prevention. Some people won't take the subject seriously and are concerned only with legalities. Every school needs a formal plan to eradicate sexual harassment. Milder forms often worsen, if uncorrected, and kids cannot learn if they are afraid. (MLH)

Protecting students from abuse is crucial for principals. However, false allegations can destroy a teacher's career and life. Principals can protect teachers by having a code of conduct, prohibiting false complaints, and providing training in prevention strategies. Teachers should avoid 10 risky behaviors. (Contains 11 references.) (MLH)

A "boilerplate" sexual harassment policy embedded in the district policy manual is insufficient. Schools need a comprehensive sexual harassment prevention program addressing authority, accountability, responsibility, and training. Since the vast majority of sexual harassment in schools is student-to-student, training efforts should not be limited…

This book offers guidelines for school district authorities in establishing or expanding the role of districtwide risk management and gives direction for the development of individual school-based risk-management programs. Part 1 relates fundamental constructs of risk management to school site-level and district-level management. Chapters address…

Gloria, a first-year principal at Sunflower High School, sighed as she stared at her computer screen. She had been asked to write letters of reference for three teachers who were leaving her school. The first resigned among rumors of misconduct with a student--but before an investigation began. The second was asked to resign after a school…

Understanding prospective employees' rights (under the 1964 Civil Rights Act and other federal legislation prohibiting discriminatory practices) can help principals protect themselves, their schools, and their districts from litigation. Scenarios are described, along with permissible staff-selection steps: position analysis, recruitment,…