A Missouri school system has cut benefit costs by establishing a self-funded health insurance plan for employees. Reviews areas to consider and ways to set up such a plan. (MD)

Describes a special incentive program for teachers provided by merchants in Durham, North Carolina. Teachers are given a "Teacher Express Card" that can be used for discounts at local stores. (MD)

Discusses employers' duty to accommodate employees' requests for religious leave, based on the case of "Ansonia Board of Education v. Philbrook." A school board denied a high school teacher's request for three days of paid, personal business leave to supplement his paid religious leave. The final court decision turned on "reasonable…

Proposes the use of teacher sabbaticals to improve the quality of teachers. Includes a list of recommendations for implementing a sabbatical policy. (MD)

Attitudes about teacher sabbaticals are sharply divided and, as funding grows scarcer, get more controversial. Teachers should plan sabbaticals that will improve their teaching, and school boards should be assured of good, long-term returns on their investments of sabbaticals. (MLF)

Granting unpaid leaves of absence to teachers who are at or near the top of the school district's teacher pay scale will save the district money. Such leaves benefit teachers by satisfying whatever needs inspired their requests, and offer students a new enthusiastic teacher in the classroom. (Author/MLF)

Recruiting options for securing sought-after teachers include one-time bonuses on hiring or after the first year; release-time with pay or a shortened workday; longer work year with paid time for professional development, accelerated sabbatical leaves, or paying teachers to take advanced courses; and supplementary salary schedules. (MJL)

Several key labor bills that could affect school boards' role as employers will move forward through the 101st Congress. Details proposed mandates about family and medical leave, mandatory health benefits, and child care programs. (MLF)