Introduces special issue on the role of the assistant principal. Briefly reviews the contents of a series of articles which examines research on assistant principals, describes their experiences and major functions, and discusses their potential contributions to managing and improving instruction. (KH)

Presents a strategy for reconceptualizing the role of the high school assistant principal in order to: (1) make the job more professionally satisfying; (2) better prepare assistants for subsequent responsibilities as principals; and (3) develop a capacity for problem-solving activities, pursued cooperatively by teachers and administrators, to…

Examines the changing role of teachers after passage of Chicago's School Reform Act. It explores the new roles of education professionals, issues of teacher empowerment in Chicago reforms, how teachers have become increasingly involved, and the efforts to assist teachers' professional development. (GLR)

Teachers in an Alexandria, VA high school formed the School Improvement Project to have a greater voice in the running of the school. They were surprised by the work the process demanded and by faculty members and administrators wedded to the old top-down structure. (Author/LHW)

Since 1974, the Australian Capital Territory has been using a school-based management system. Surveys of 29 schools and interviews with 38 board members identified the characteristics of more effective schools that are more accountable to their communities. (SK)

Examines role changes in school administrators, especially with respect to the professional development of staff members. Nontraditional images of the principal are explored, their new activities are linked to the staff development needs, and the implications of this changing image to staff development are discussed. (GLR)

Current educational management systems encourage the view of students and teachers as problem creators. Schools might be reformed through a greater appreciation of modern business practices which emphasize democratic participation. All members of the educational process could become decision makers and problem solvers. (KH)

Discusses the impact that Chancellor Joseph Fernandez has had on the New York City school system. Discusses his ideological beliefs, which include school-based management and accountability. Comments on Fernandez's personal style and how this has affected his relationships with teachers, parents, principals, and others involved in the educational…

Discusses the importance of organization beliefs, values, and ideology to the internal environment of the organization. Applies the idea of culture development within the system to the workings of schools. Discusses how rites move from the individual to the organization and eventually affect the effectiveness of the organization. (JS)

This report contains a synopsis of all public education waivers to improve student achievement granted to Texas school districts during the period from September 1, 1991 through August 31, 1992. The purpose of the waivers is to set aside a requirement or prohibition imposed by state law that inhibits student achievement. The state's educational…

Draws on the results of two different studies to explore the changing nature of the principalship in Chicago public schools since the passage of the Chicago School Reform Act. It reveals changes not only in the characteristics of the principals hired since the act's passage but also changes in their roles. (GLR)

Examines three case studies picked from a longitudinal study of the effects of Chicago school reform and investigates school improvement under site-based management. Two elementary schools represent descriptive accounts of school reform and improvements, and one high school illustrates constraints on reform. (GLR)

In Hammond, IN, the hierarchical structure of authority typical of most school districts is on its way out. With school based committees making more decisions, teachers are having a say in all matters that affect them and their students. Includes an interview with teacher and union leader, Patrick O'Rourke (Author/LHW)

Discusses (1) characteristics distinguishing independent schools from public and other private schools (self-governance, self-support, self-defined curriculum, self-selected students and faculty, and small size); (2) self-imposed and environmental challenges confronting independent schools (demographic change, commitment to diversity, and public…

This annual report of the Carnegie Foundation sets forth the goals the foundation has established for the improvement of education: (1) an urgent call to national action in school reform; (2) a commitment to the disadvantaged; (3) a crusade to strengthen teaching; (4) state standards, with leadership at the local school; (5) a quality curriculum;…