In a study on school effectiveness, a random sample of more than 10,000 teachers from 538 high schools were surveyed to examine the climate of American high schools. Based on teacher reports, school climate measures were developed and related to schools and teachers. Methodology and results are discussed. (JL)

Children reveal important effects of their schooling at home. Thus, parents should play a more meaningful role in evaluating schools. When students are old enough, their feedback should be solicited for evaluation purposes. The feedback process must be structured to inform and support school personnel. (VM)

Examines how public confidence in the U.S. school system has fluctuated during the 1970s and 1980s. Describing U.S. high schools as underachievers, Westbury compares them to the schools of other nations. Acknowledges past achievements of high schools, but argues that they should not provide a blueprint for the future. (GEA)

Reports a study of the coordination, control, and assessment procedures employed by superintendents in effective school districts. Types of mechanisms and the extent of their use in directing activities are reported. Findings suggest the existence of linkages between the managerial level and technical core in these school districts. Thirty-five…

Explores similarities between educational and industrial planning processes by comparing contexts, research methodologies, and especially major research conclusions. Applies eight effective school characteristics (including collaborative planning, clear mission, sound leadership, high expectations, safe environment, and others) to industry's own…

The school-based planning process often exacerbates efforts to improve instructional effectiveness. The importance of addressing strategic instructional issues in planning is emphasized. To ensure more positive outcomes, six important guidelines are offered. (Author/JS)

Although counselors traditionally prefer individual counseling sessions with students, group sessions may be more effective. Provides five steps by which the principal can help counselors make this transition to group counseling. Includes 13 references. (Author/MD)

Critiquing the previous article, the author points out that to move beyond slogans educators must realize that cultural literacy cannot be scientifically prescribed. Cultural literacy evolves from the complexity of children's backgrounds and experiences, both at home and at school. (Author/MD)

Examines the problems associated with maintaining ordinary senior middle schools (high schools) in China. Focuses specifically on the difficulties of paying equal attention to vocational and college preparatory programs. (BSR)

Nothing is more important to success in schools than the quality of relationships between and among students, teachers, and parents, particularly for children under stress. In focusing on teaching and learning as mechanical processes, educators give little attention to the quality of relationships so necessary to self-development. (MT)

Developing cooperative structures such as cooperative learning in classrooms, collegial teacher support groups, and collegial administrative relationships within the district will contribute to school effectiveness. Necessary elements are positive interdependence, face-to-face interaction, individual accountability, social skills, and group…

Research on effective teaching, combined with findings of the effective schools movement, is calling for teacher empowerment and new leadership opportunities for principals. This article describes a leadership pyramid embodying symbolic, cultural, instructional, and managerial functions. Principals will still operate at the top (symbolic and…

A study of nine British universities' response to retrenchment in 1981-1984 found that while some institutions were successful in reducing staff and student numbers, reducing expenditures, and increasing other income, there were serious negative impacts affecting the institutions' ability to provide effective teaching and research and meet social…

Presents an assessment of the relative performance of public and private schools, based on data from the Educational Testing Service. Challenges the Coleman Report's assertion that private schools more closely approximate the common school egalitarian ideal and sever the connections between background characteristics and measured achievement. (SA)

Three areas that are crucial to the future of effective, high-quality public education are: (1) encouraging good teachers; (2) including more than basics in the school curricula; and (3) promoting student volunteerism. (CB)