Academic contests can enhance school climate. Presents possibilities for competitions recognizing scholastic abilities. (MD)

Art programs suffer from public misunderstanding and a general undervaluing of their content. This article presents new approaches to evaluating student art, particularly that afforded by the College Board's Advanced Placement Program in Studio Art, the Presidential Scholars in the Arts Program, and the National Arts Awards Program. (WD)

Outlines classroom methods that further the development of positive self-concepts in students by recognizing their achievements both in school and out. (IRT)

The author judges merit pay an ineffective reward for teachers' hard work and success, citing two fundamental problems: first, the objectivity of the person determining merit is always suspect; second, contrary to its intention, merit pay "demotivates" teachers and causes morale problems. (MJL)

Outlines a merit pay incentive plan that will improve teacher quality and performance. Includes a sample merit evaluation form. (MD)

In a recent study, teachers linked use of praise to principals' goals of promoting and reinforcing instructional performance. Teachers viewed praise as a positive, effective influence strategy that helped boost their confidence and pride and enhance feelings of satisfaction and belonging. Only work-related praise was viewed as influential.…

In response to the prevailing attitude in American education today demanding higher academic standards and greater student achievement, this article lists 25 programs designed to increase academic excellence while still promoting a positive learning environment within the school. (DCS)

Outlines an innovative district-wide staff development program that improved morale, lessened the teacher burnout rate, and saved the district money. (MD)

Outlined is a merit pay proposal that atttempts to negate current criticisms and emphasizes a philosophy of compensating teachers for their productivity and abilities. (MD)

While it is not easy to implement merit pay for school administrators, the author argues its importance and presents the necessary conditions for successful program implementation. (MD)

Principals' major challenge is to manage a productive work culture creating more ideal conditions for learning. This article reviews some common cultural dimension themes found in current best sellers on management, including symbol systems, group sharing and networking, reward and recognition systems, and empowerment and entrepreneurial…

Analyzes the organizational values and other elements that make up institutional cultures, and discusses how these cultures shape the behavior of people in the institutions. Provides administrators with practical strategies for creating effective school cultures within their own institutions. Stresses the importance of positive traditions and…

A Massachusetts school faced with low teacher and student morale as a result of severe budget cuts initiated a year-long competitive program to improve school morale. The program was successful and virtually cost-free. (MD)

A survey of 417 high-achieving high schoolers, 103 young prison inmates, and 105 dropouts enrolled in a GED program disclosed significant differences between high-achieving and less-successful adolescents regarding family background, interactions with parents, religious versus material orientation, self-motivation, and interest in school…