This speech discusses strategies for closing the gap between teachers, principals, and central office personnel. These strategies include (1) developing an open climate of mutual understanding and acceptance by devoting special attention to interpersonal relationships, (2) developing a plan to improve staff morale, (3) devising a communication…

The purpose of this study was to clarify the role of the local vocational director and area vocational center administrator in local education agencies. Through this role clarification, it is hoped that training programs can be more accurately geared to the development of competencies necessary to carry out the functions of the positions. The…

While gifted school executives have always been scarce, changes in demographics, state legislation, and young colleagues' attitudes may fuel a mass exodus from school leadership positions. Education professionals are generally older, shun inner-city assignments, and choose early retirement. Insets further document the dilemma and suggest…

Outlines the steps boards should follow in doing a search for hiring a new superintendent. (MD)

The major budgeting problems encountered by a small school corporation superintendent in Indiana show that organizing a school system's finances is similiar to funding a big business. Four major budgetary funds of Indiana school corporations are explained. (DF)

"Alabama Education News" is published monthly except for June, July, and December by the Alabama Department of Education. This publication, authorized by Section 16-2-4 of the "Code of Alabama", as recompiled in 1975, is a public service of the Alabama Department of Education designed to inform citizens and educators about…

In 2001, Illinois was one of 15 states across America selected and funded by the Wallace Foundation, in cooperation with the National Council for State Legislatures, National Governors' Association, Education Commission of the States, Council of Chief State School Officers, and the National Association of State Boards of Education, to plan,…

Many Ohio educators are retiring at a young age and returning to positions in public schools following retirement. Some states restrict retirees' returning to public-school employment. Ohio is the most lenient state of eight states reviewed in allowing retirees to return to work in public schools. This report provides the results of a study of 25…

This monograph is a collection of articles on research and reflection by faculty and practitioners on educational leadership. Part I, "Leading a Learning Organization," contains the following articles: "Emotional Intelligence and Leading a Learning Organization" (C. Sue McCullough); "Women's Leadership Through Agency"…

This paper focuses on Springfield (Missouri) public schools and the superintendency of Harry P. Study, a progressive educator who advocated "education for a democratic community" during the 1920s in a city and state that held conservative values and beliefs. Noting that Study was a cosmopolitan and experienced educator, the paper…

Urban school superintendents hold one of the most important and challenging jobs in America's education system. The Council of the Great City Schools (GCS) represents the majority of large urban school districts in the country. Though there are approximately 17 thousand school districts in the country, the Council's 65 districts serve…

This annual report highlights information on school performance and improvement in Hawaii's public schools. The report profiles noteworthy academic events, trends, and outcomes at two organizational levels: state and complex. Featured are tables, figures, and narrative sections related to demographic, financial, and educational performance. Also,…

Public schools in the United States face enormous challenges as they try to provide cost-effective, good quality education. Schools can continually change to provide this service. The principles and processes of Total Quality Management can lead to Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI). Change can be initiated at any level and can be customized to…

In 1996, the Rhode Island State Advisory Committee for Gifted and Talented Education surveyed 34 Rhode Island school superintendents on the status of gifted and talented education in their districts. Findings from the survey indicate: (1) Rhode Island school districts are serving about 4.5 percent of the student population; (2) there were…

Despite their prominence, the voices of superintendents are rarely heard regarding their personal triumphs and challenges in educational administration and serving the needs of students. Chapter 1, "A Look at the Featured Superintendents," introduces 14 superintendents and reviews their careers. Chapter 2, "The Good: Dealing With…