A coordinated school health program has numerous mutually reinforcing components: a healthy environment; comprehensive health education; physical education; health services; counseling, psychological, and social services; nutrition services; staff health promotion; and family and community involvement. Program implementation steps are outlined. A…

The American Indian Urban Higher Education Initiative, a collaboration between tribal and urban institutions of higher education in the Minneapolis area, was established to create systems change to benefit urban American Indian students. Community participation in an educational needs assessment organized by the Initiative included a symposium,…

A former board member of a New Zealand primary school describes the country's political climate as radical economic libertarian; contract bidding among schools will soon be required. Elementary schools are child-centered and multicultural, operate year-round, involve the board and community, follow a national curriculum, and have overworked,…

In rural Madison County (North Carolina), a project to plan community health services began with 40 community "listening sessions" in which local people discussed health needs and problems. These sessions led to a community coalition that actively cooperates with health professionals in planning health services and trainings,…

Discusses ways that experiential and service learning can contribute to a sense of community for both resident and commuter college students. Considers the theory and practice of experiential education and ways in which experiential learning can involve commuter students with other students, faculty, and the community. (DB)

Describes the efforts of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust to foster active student and community participation with its arts resources and cultural offerings. The Trust provides family/school programs, teacher partnerships, cultural enticements, community enrichment, and a comprehensive arts education. (YKH)

The Torrance (California) Unified School District is proving that learning flourishes when the community collaborates to create a conflict-resolution program. This article profiles North High School's efforts to develop and select peer mediators, integrate conflict-resolution principles into the curriculum, address roots of conflict in the…

By successfully creating links with the larger community, one San Diego high school principal discovered the keys to building a true learning community. Community building requires a shared, research-based vision; specific educational goals; a meaningfully aligned curriculum; constituent involvement; careful monitoring; ongoing professional…

In 1999, two schools in an impoverished border town in Texas received 3-year federal grants from the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program to support varied after-hours activities: academic tutoring, computer literacy, "ballet folklorico," arts and crafts, guitar instruction, and service learning. Students and parents now have a safe…

When introducing a new middle-school mathematics curriculum, an Iowa school district anticipated parents' misgivings, addressed them early, and made parents into allies. Planners addressed parental concerns by exuding confidence and honesty, treating parents as equal partners, defining accountability, communicating effectively, carefully selecting…

Describes collaborative efforts where museums and community organizations encourage family involvement in science, including the Girls at the Center (GAC) and Community Connections programs. Discusses challenges, strengths of partnerships, outreach efforts, and museum-based events. Contains 12 references. (JRH)

In an interview with "Principal," U.S. Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley and NAESP Executive Director Vincent Ferrandino agreed that schools should become community centers. Principals' major challenges include welcoming and involving the community, envisioning improvements, building consensus, valuing teamwork, and pursuing…

Community schools come in all shapes and sizes, offering wide-ranging support and opportunities for children, families, and the greater community. Elementary principals from several rural and urban community schools explain how close-knit community partnerships created campuses that involved parents, energized teachers, and enhanced children's…

Describes successful public relations efforts in 23 Illinois public libraries. Highlights include fundraising efforts; innovative program design; community involvement; media coverage; referendum promotions; student reading initiatives; and local business involvement. (LRW)

Believes that the future of general music may rely on forging connections within schools and communities and publicizing the practices of successful music programs. Discusses various connections that can be made and lists ideas that will direct music educators toward success. (CMK)