Growth is the most vital sign of overall health in a child, and many medical conditions are identified by abnormal growth patterns. A Georgia school district, with the assistance of the Human Growth Foundation, implemented growth screening in all 55 elementary schools and in 9 out of 18 middle schools. (MLF)

Computerized records are not necessarily accurate. Outlines how to do a short evaluation that checks the accuracy of student records. Includes discussion of how to improve student record-keeping. (MD)

Four components are necessary in a system of internal control--organization, systems of authorization and records, sound practices, and adequacy of personnel. (Author/IRT)

The minutes of a school board meeting can enhance board credibility and can provide important documentation in the case of litigation. The features of accurate board minutes are described and ways to achieve them are suggested. (Author/MLF)

Materials for Jefferson County (Kentucky) schools are stored in a records center and archive. The major activities of the center are processing records, responding to research requests, microfilming, and destroying records. The facility provides space and cost savings, a means of efficient retrieval, and permanent storage of historical records.…

Narrates the history of an age discrimination suit against the West Hartford (Connecticut) Board of Education, arising from board attempts to limit hirings above certain salary levels. Suggests that school boards carry insurance against legal damages, retain hiring records, and hire administrators willing to be honest with unsuccessful job…

Conflicting policies, careless recordkeeping, and racial tension added up in turmoil for the Newton County (Georgia) Board of Education when an African-American student and a white student each claimed the honor of being class valedictorian. (MLF)

The experience of one school board in suburban Chicago emphasizes the importance of meticulous recordkeeping by boards in making discretionary expenditures and the need for full and public disclosure when citizens ask questions about school expenditures. (WM)

After a South Carolina school bus accident, involving the death of an automobile driver, the district was faced with a lawsuit. Advises school administrators not to rely on police authorities to gather all the evidence but to compile a thorough school-system accident report, written in close cooperation with a school attorney. Lists report…

When considering student expulsion, it is important to keep complete records of all hearings and proceedings. Reviewed is a recent Pennsylvania court case in which a board decision to expel two students was overturned in the courts because no hearing records were kept. (MD)

Describes the advantages of computerizing a school's office. Computers save time, boost worker productivity, and, in the end, save money. (MD)

Teacher absenteeism is a serious problem symptomized by lack of board and superintendent leadership, incomplete attendance records and policies, job dissatisfaction, and failure to recognize the problem or reward good attendance. The author outlines eight solutions that match each symptom and five false beliefs about teacher absenteeism. (RW)

Step-by-step advice to help school administrators develop a sound risk-management program to protect their school system against loss of property or losses to employees or the public. (Author/MLF)