Identifies situations in which there is disparity between coefficients calculated from aggregate versus individual level data. Determines the magnitudes of these discrepancies, and discusses the implications for test score reporting and policy decisions based in whole or in part on the aggregate level relationships and discrepancies identified.…

Principals can influence teachers and instructional behavior by working through linkage mechanisms within the organizational structure of the school. Two types of linkages are identified: bureaucratic and cultural. Principals have access to linkages of both kinds; using linkages effectively, they can generate a common purpose in their schools. (MD)

Summarizes findings of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) on reading, mathematics, science, writing, high and low achievers, race, types of schools, and geographic regions and affirms the potential of American education to solve its own problems with government assistance at the federal level. (JBM)

The School Improvement Project demonstrates that when schools rigorously implement activities that address the five "Edmonds Factors," gains in student achievement and staff attitudes can be made. These factors are (1) strong administrative leadership; (2) emphasis on basic skills; (3) an orderly school climate; (4) ongoing student…

Research findings, supported by other research projects, identify the elements relevant to school improvement as school focus, school autonomy, and staff development. A chart based on three recent major literature reviews provides a comprehensive listing of supportable assertions regarding unusually effective institutions. (MLF)

Elementary schools in the USSR are discussed. Specifically examined are the educational aims and objectives of elementary schools, educational approaches used and levels of achievement attained, ways of improving teaching methods, and problems and future prospects. (RM)

Summarizes and evaluates briefly the findings of research on the effects of various middle-level grade organizations on students' achievement, discipline, self-discipline, self-esteem, and social development. (PGD)

Reviews research on the cost of public schools, quality of schooling, public opinion on school quality, comparison with private schools, and prospects for reform. (SK)

Discusses studies showing that, contrary to the view overwhelmingly supported by research of over a decade and a half, some urban schools, through principal leadership, high teacher expectations, and rigorous academic programs, are able to raise the achievement of low-income students. (CMG)

The requirement to desegregate schools catalyzed changes enhancing educational effectiveness at Norfolk Public Schools (Virginia). Diversification of curriculum, high expectations, and instructional leadership have brought about dramatic improvements in academic achievement and minimal competency, and a significant decrease in racial disparity.…

This document contains resolution text adopted by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) in July 1998 regarding Redesigning Low-Performing Schools. A Question & Answer section follows the resolution, addressing the following issues: (1) Union support for redesign or closure of low-performing schools; (2) Indicators of low-performing schools…

This book presents research findings about school-level and district level practices and successful strategies employed in mathematics education by highly effective schools that serve high-poverty communities. It includes both the theory and practice of creating highly effective schools in these communities. In 2002 nine schools were selected in…

Bellevue Community College (BCC), Washington, produces a yearly analysis of the College's performance in key indicators, including information from the previous year and 2 years previous to that for comparison reasons. The 13 performance indicators for BCC are: (1) program/degree completion; (2) transfer student success; (3) student retention; (4)…

Building capacity within schools and districts for continuous improvement is a goal of educators at all levels across the United States of America. An important first step in capacity building is identifying schools' current strengths and weaknesses. Schools can then begin building upon existing strengths to implement improvement initiatives.…

No one could have anticipated the devastating results of the political, legal, and economic events occurring in California after the year 2000 and producing stiff competition for education dollars. Community colleges were among the hardest hit by state budget deficits, with over $100 million cut from an already conservative budget. Since…