When features of the "excellence" and "choice" movements in education are compared, these two orientations appear dissimilar. This article shows how the two can be united by broadening the definition of excellence so that all schools become schools of choice. Choice, then, becomes an ingredient in the pursuit of excellence. (VM)

A conceptual framework is presented, based upon a review of relevant literature sources, as well as upon preliminary impressions from a study of effective schools in California. This framework involves 14 variables that are discussed at length. (CT)

St. Alphonsus School in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, has strong academic traditions and a caring atmosphere. The factors that make this school an effective one are discussed. (MT)

The purpose of this study is to examine two large scale in-service training programs concerning Sweden's local school development. Specifically reports on relationship between centrally-introduced school reforms and response of local school management to those reforms. (BSR)

The two main approaches used to educate the gifted, enrichment and acceleration, have not been sufficiently evaluated to inform policy-makers. Future studies of giftedness should focus on understanding the intellectual, social, and personality processes involved, and on developing and evaluating appropriate educational programs. (Author/VM)

Based on data from a nationally representative sample of 14,000 elementary school children, this study finds that principal behavior and attributes significantly influence individual student achievement. These results affirm major conclusions of recent case studies and claim that schools make a difference. (Includes 2 tables, 5 notes, and 30…

Reviews research principles underlying site-based school management, including the National Committee for Citizens in Education's parameters. Outlines a Missouri school district's approach to site management, highlighting establishment of guidelines, team training, financial support, flexible staffing, and sense of ownership. (MLH)

A discussion of recent higher education policy changes in European countries aimed at improving competitiveness and measuring performance outlines the policy adjustments and some of their consequences, compares two concepts of coordination, describes the American experience, and examines results of the changes in Europe. (MSE)

Life history interview tracked the movement of five middle-class women attending classes through a continuing education center for women. The center facilitated their movement through developmental stages but hampered their movement between stages, their abandonment of old social roles, and their construction of new roles. (BJV)

The graded self-contained classrooom can be a negative influence on student and teacher development. Teachers and students should work together in collaborative relationships and in environments featuring nongradedness, multiaged pupil groups, and flexible shared space. (MD)

Analyzes the data obtained in a five-year study of principals. Identifies six ways principals in the study exercised leadership through staff development. The most effective principals reinforced teacher development through informal communication and monitoring. (MD)

Principals' job orientation has recently changed from school management to instructional leadership, though research indicates principals are instrumental in influencing student achievement gains. Effective schooling characteristics are synthesized, a diagnostic instrument of principals' training relative to instructional leadership is discussed,…

Outlines the steps a "lighthouse" principal took in turning an ineffective school characterized by low morale, poor achievement, and high absentee rates into an effective school with high morale and improved student achievement during a six-month period. (MD)

Educational excellence exists in the process of learning as much as in the results. The engagement that marks excellence involves curiosity about the world, clear thinking with values, and character that keeps you anchored in the world. Every person is capable of this excellence. (LHW)

Places questions about parent involvement in the following four categories: (1) coproduction or partnership, (2) decision making, (3) citizen advocacy, and (4) parent choice. Discusses these categories, identifies examples or models, and offers recommendations for action by parents, policymakers, and practitioners. (LHW)