Provides a review of the literature published in the past two decades on the role and effectiveness of local school boards, specifically with respect to school boards' influence on students' academic achievement. Identifies characteristics of effective school boards. (SLD)

Reports the findings of a study aimed at learning from students and teachers in Black schools what classroom practices lead to success in school mathematics in their impoverished context. (Author/KHR)

Argues that basic elements of schools require restructuring if the literacy levels necessary for the twenty-first century are to be accessible to all. Argues for restructuring that goes beyond schools themselves. Proposes an alternative approach which would have those who teach be those who decide how goals are to be accomplished. (MG)

Green Elementary School (MI) is recognized as an outstanding school. Community involvement, including an active core of parent volunteers, contributes to the school's success. Several school activities are outlined: school-wide themes, theatrical performances, and activities to enhance staff harmony. (IAH)

The effective schools approach has had its best success in small- and medium-sized systems with an insistent superintendent and board of education. Restructuring, like the effective schools movement, is the invention of urban educators confronting the necessities of poor and minority students. School effectiveness strengths need to be incorporated…

Reviews the design and conduct of the Study of the Education of Educators (SEE) project. Reports findings concerning institutional context, teacher candidates and their perceptions about becoming teachers, some characteristics and views of education faculty members, and the nature and conduct of the preparation programs studied. Includes 16…

Applies the findings of the Effective Schools Movement and the School Development Program to improving the educational opportunities of Black urban students. Recommends progressive reform in the following areas: (1) recognizing the centrality of human relations; (2) eliminating barriers to effective teaching and learning; and (3) mobilizing…

Principals must realize the positive effects that marketing can have on improving schools and building support for them. Market analysis forces clarification of the competing needs and interests present in the community. The four marketing phases are needs assessment, analysis, goal setting, and public relations and advertising. (MLH)

Reviews characteristics common to principals of effective schools. Outlines a behavioral approach by which principals can convey high standards and expectations to teachers, other staff, and students. Suggests a four-step method for creating a positive environment and collegial atmosphere in school. Contains 12 references. (SV)

Reports on a survey of 247 education inspectors who built a portrait of conditions in Nigerian primary schools from their visits to and supervision of teachers. Results suggest that many teachers are undertrained, additional classrooms are needed, and basic teaching aids and textbooks are in short supply. (RJC)

Examines the informal administrative career path leading from the rural school district to "big league" urban and suburban areas. Reviews research emphasizing the importance of the superintendent in effective rural districts. Suggests a subsidized preparation program specifically for rural administrator candidates, involving an intensive…

Claims school counselors can make their contribution to effective schools by establishing a positive, supportive, people-oriented school climate from which the other correlates of effectiveness can be implemented. Describes six actions counselors can take to promote effective schools and provides suggestions for dealing with the political…

Using the research on effective staff development, a rural Minnesota school district developed a grass-roots professional development program which featured opening-week workshops, training programs, mini-grants, a professional library,and a school effectiveness program. (JD)

Discusses six elements necessary to effect change in a community college: the motivation to change, a vision of the future, knowledge of the institution's present status, a planning framework and process, adequate personnel and financial resources, and an evaluation/assessment mechanism. (DMM)

Neither hyperrationalist nor decentralist reform strategies will seriously improve educational quality. Successful reform strategies incorporate three dimensions: the authorized movement, regional or localist responses, and conversation, involving changes in school rhetoric. States must create a context for developing organizational competence at…