The likely consequences of applying traditional due process standards, expecially formal adversary hearings, to the public school are examined. The ruling in Goss v. Lopez suggests that fair treatment can still be expected if the hearings are treated as opportunities for candid and informal exchange rather than prepunishment ceremonies. (LBH)

Survey results provide insights into school policies and procedures, leadership, teaching methodology, and the quality of instruction offered by schools. Offers a road map for improving school-community relations. (MLF)

Describes the curriculum activities in one child-centered, developmentally appropriate child care facility preschool classroom. Explains how activities are selected according to children's needs, interest, and ability, and how activities address the kindergarten core competencies mandated by the North Carolina public school system. Asserts that…

Focuses on the rights of special needs children in the schooling process. Outlines a number of laws that protect the educational rights of exceptional children, noting that, unfortunately, school systems often fail to provide all the services needed. Presents skills and strategies parents need to conduct advocacy on behalf of their children with…

Fifty children from five first-year classrooms were observed and interviewed over a 10-week period. Found socialization of these children to the view that schooling is essential for their preparation for the future; according to the children, this takes place during activities identified as "work," not "play," and is emphasized…

Criticism regarding omission of the word "responsibilities" from the title of the Joint Statement on Rights and Freedoms of Students may have been harsh and premature. It is likely, however, that the theme of responsibilities will dictate the agenda of future dialog. (Author/KW)

Believing in students is what's behind the best alternative schools. Profiles of various alternative education programs reveal stringent requirements for students' self-discipline and responsibility for learning. Some districts are turning to alternative programs and schools in an effort to keep their regular schools safe. (MLF)

Findings from 26 former pupils of a residential school for boys (ages 7-19) with emotional/behavioral disorders indicate that, despite some concerns, the former pupils have very positive memories of the school and felt that it had helped them to overcome their learning and behavioral difficulties. (Contains references.) (Author/CR)

Using national longitudinal data on 10,860 adolescents, a comparative analysis of community contextual effects on delinquency examined variables derived from three theories. Youths in areas of high male joblessness who experienced stressful life events or little parental supervision were especially likely to be involved in delinquency. The…

Suggests that if children's emotional concerns are not met, any attempt at cognitive learning is useless. Describes the Right Start Program, which smoothes the transition from home to school through a school picnic, "let's read" night, class visit, and optional home visits. Notes some possible impediments to implementation such as teachers'…

Colleges and universities can avoid student litigation if they adopt clearly defined objectives, grading procedures, classroom expectations, and appeals procedures. (Author/MSE)

The article discusses the Supreme Court's ruling in Doe v. Honig that emotionally handicapped students could not be expelled pending the outcome of a parental appeal. Among implications noted are the need for greater prevention efforts in the area of providing appropriate programs and services for handicapped students. (JW)

The authors of the book "Reducing the Risk: Schools as Communities of Support" are interviewed. The book proposes a research-based theory of dropout prevention that stresses the importance of school membership and networks of support. (TE)

The Highland School, located in the remote hills of West Virginia, is modeled on John Dewey's ideas. This laboratory school promotes experiential learning and believes that interaction between children, teachers, and the environment is the key to learning. The article describes the schools' founding and the philosophy behind it. (SM)

Presents observations on the negative behavior of school children, offers a rationale for the development of a failure identity, and provides practical ideas for helping children move to feelings of success and positive identity. Empathy and a willingness to realign adult expectations are suggested. (Author/LKS)