This study examines the validity of a statewide teacher evaluation system in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Three hundred and thirty-eight teachers from 16 at-risk schools located in eight school districts participated in an evaluation system pilot during the 2011-2012 academic year. Teachers received ratings on six teacher effectiveness process…

The purpose for this study was to ascertain the perceptions principals of public secondary schools in Minnesota have in relation to the evaluation of their job performance. Responding principals reported that past evaluations have been fair and consistent but have questioned their value with regard to professional growth. When asked if student…

The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate the effective beliefs and practices of successful principals at high schools with a Hispanic population of at least 30%. Eight purposefully selected high school principals participated in the study. Findings emphasized that successful principals are passionate in their commitment to support…

A definition of professionalism is given. (CK)

Cites the need for an examination of ways in which we can teach the theory and practice of decimal notation so that its operational facility is a genuine advantage. (Editor/GB)

Young students have little understanding of grades. This article examines grading systems and standards and presents grading guidelines, beginning with grade five. Teachers should explain grades to students; base grades on a predetermined set of standards and on students' progress, attitudes, and relative class standing; consider various sources;…

Textbooks cannot define curriculum. In a curriculum vacuum, textbooks have made content coverage an end in itself, made didactic treatment of fact-level information the standard teaching method, and overwhelmed learners with too much information. Textbook content is indifferent to educational goals, is unselective, ignores instructional pace,…

Industry has believed for years that adopting the metric system would be an advantage to U. S. economy both at home and abroad. The author explains how the metric conversion program is being organized, and how educators can get information about it. (Editor)

In an interview, Educational Testing Service (ETS) President Gregory R. Anrig proposes making the standardized testing industry publicly accountable through adoption of standards modeled on guidelines established by three major professional associations. He also discusses criticisms of the testing industry and the future development of ETS. (PGD)

Professional growth opportunities in most schools are limited and ineffective. By enabling teachers to participate actively in their own learning, examine current instructional strategies, and determine what they must do to improve, the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards' assessment process and professional development can help…

Established in May 1987 as a nongovernmental, not-for-profit organization, the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards has developed a voluntary teacher certification system that can lead to markedly improved student learning. It will also provide recognition of excellent teachers and a standard toward which all teachers can aspire.…

The current state-dominated standards movement originated in the 1983 "Nation at Risk" report. Five different types of standards are usually considered when developing a standards-based school reform system: district, content, student performance, school delivery, and system delivery. Arguments for standards outweigh those against.…

Research Development Corporation is developing a virtual schoolhouse, a repository that will provide access to resources without traditional boundary limitations, materials customized to individual student needs, and professional development forums for teachers. The program will have a virtual library of educational research findings and…

Based on 1997 Individuals with Disabilities Amendments and National Longitudinal Transition Study results, the Office of Special Education Programs has isolated requirements for educating handicapped children: involvement in the full range of curricula and programs; participation in state and districtwide achievement assessments; provision of…