Argues that teaching authentic civic values in schools frequently requires teaching about controversial issues. Asserts that adequate teacher preparation and continued inservice education is essential for effective instruction about contemporary social problems. Includes two model lessons and a list of organizations that offer materials for civic…

The "at-risk" designation attached to low-achieving children frequently sets them up for failure. Remedial programs are often ineffective, and skill drills rob students of in-context reading opportunities. Models like Success for All are so prescriptive that students cannot participate in open-ended discussions of literature. Unjust…

Argues that contemporary society is increasingly experiencing a loss of social capital. Maintains that this loss takes expression in the increasing tendency, as reflected in school reforms and restructuring, of regarding teachers' work in technical terms. Advocates regarding teaching as a social practice in which there is greater emphasis on…

The "ideal" principal is facing a world of decentralized school structures, increasing and changing environmental boundaries and roles, less homogeneous schools, closer contact with stakeholders, and a market-driven view of education. Principals should view themselves as environmental negotiators, not merely school-system managers.…

Addresses public policy issues concerned with treatment of children with autism under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Emphasis is on issues raised by the popular, but labor-intensive, Lovaas method, such as whether these therapies are an entitlement under IDEA, the choice of an intervention strategy decision process,…

A discussion of tenure for clinical faculty in optometric education looks at traditional eligibility requirements, administrative and political aspects of tenure policy, ways in which medical schools have addressed clinical faculty tenure, how clinical faculty are "essential" faculty, responsibilities of administration to clinical faculty and of…

Describes history of legal theory behind affirmative action, with examples from case law and Department of Education regulations, identifying legal pitfalls in admissions and financial aid, including categorization of students by race, racially disproportionate financial aid awards after accounting for need, racially disproportionate scholarship…

Maintains that the introduction of poststructuralist theory in moral education is often damaged and weakened by referencing the models of liberal humanism. Argues that the introduction, use, and analysis of various narrative strategies can support a poststructuralist teaching effort. Includes examples of this from an elementary mathematics class.…

Discusses the challenges of censorship in the social studies curriculum that new teachers will have to face in controlled school environments. Maintains that new teachers must be trained and prepared to effectively deal with these challenges in school systems that are not supportive of certain academic freedoms. (MJP)

The real work of a board president or chair is developing working relationships with agencies, commissions, special interest groups, and especially the superintendent and other board members. Communication strategies include phone calls, small-group meetings, caucuses, e-mail, monthly meetings, letters, and notes. (MLF)

Articulates an approach to teaching sociology that creates connections between the personal and political lives of the students and the sociological concepts studied. Includes descriptions of class assignments designed to induce alienation and empowerment. Considers pedagogical alternatives to traditional instruction. (MJP)

Critiques a set of children's books that focus on moral, social, and civic issues. All of the titles offer concrete examples of critical thinking and steer clear of agenda-based politics. Includes nonfiction, anthologies, and curriculum guides. (MJP)

Characterizes economist John Maynard Keynes as immoral, decadent, and short sighted. Criticizes his economic theories for manifesting these same qualities and claims that these theories hold predominant sway over high school economics education. Mentions several supposedly biased passages from textbooks but provides no examples. (MJP)

Highlights the interdisciplinary, multicultural courses at Ursuline College (Ohio) that fulfill their commitment to promoting ethnic diversity and social justice. The courses include "Those Fabulous (?) 60's"; "Women, Doers of Justice"; and an examination of key cities during historical periods. Discusses the courses'…

Maintains that the collegiate chapters of the Music Educators National Conference act as an excellent training ground for student leaders. Recommends continuing the support and guidance for these students to emerge as leading teachers. Provides specific advice for MENC chapter advisors on fostering support and independence. (MJP)