Intel-ebration is an attempt to integrate the following research-based instructional frameworks and strategies: (1) dimensions of learning; (2) multiple intelligences; (3) thematic instruction; (4) cooperative learning; (5) project-based learning; and (6) instructional technology. This paper presents a thematic unit on safari, using the…

As part of a follow-up of 1994-95 graduates, Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) conducted a study of graduates' employers to determine their satisfaction with graduates' job skills, performance, and academic preparation. Surveys were sent to 35 employers of graduates who gave permission for their employers to be contacted, with 62.9%…

The Department of Public Instruction is actively involved in efforts to improve the school experience and educational outcomes in Wisconsin. Chapter 1, "What Are the Characteristics of Successful Schools?" examines the seven characteristics of successful schools, which describe the school environment, goals, and management strategies and…

This paper lays out a performance-based model to better leverage the mission and power of school boards toward improving student learning. It moves beyond discussions about whether boards should be elected or appointed, instead arguing that mode of selection is less directly responsible for board success than clarity and focus about its mission…

This document reports on three focus groups comprised of state officials, local practitioners and supporters, and researchers who were convened to provide input on strategies for assessing and validating the effects of tech prep. Part I provides a brief summary of the groups' discussions, including major points and broad themes in these four topic…

The second edition of this guide, as did the first, describes a set of characteristics that define the Wisconsin framework for a successful school, one in which all students meet high academic and behavioral standards. It is intended to be used by practitioners to assess their own performance, guide improvement plans, and solicit feedback from…

A federation of alternative schools called New Collaborative Schools (NCS) has been proposed to improve educational outcomes of academically able but low-performing high school students. The NCS model would combine the advantages of high school-college collaborations with the most effective practices for improving the educational experiences of…

The Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) is the primary measure of student achievement applied to the grading of the Florida public schools. School grades utilize a point system in which schools are awarded one point for every percent of students: (1) scoring in achievement levels 3-5 in Reading; (2) demonstrating learning gains in…

This is one of a series of guides to self-evaluation building on the advice given in the publications "How good is our school?" and "The Child at the Centre." It also shows how the relevant National Care Standards can be applied alongside performance indicators and quality indicators to evaluate the effectiveness of…

In cities across the country, educators and civic leaders are taking on the challenge of transforming large, failing high schools where graduation rates have remained below 50 percent for many years. They are replacing these high schools with small schools that will prepare students in underserved urban communities to meet the high standards…

Examined special education effectiveness for students with mild disabilities in six California grade schools. Found that no single feature, structure, or organization of school environment consistently indicated a school's relative standing or its relative effectiveness based on student performance. Findings posed implications for educational…

Identifies six conditions influencing urban high school teachers to participate in and support schoolwide programs to improve learning and teaching through administrative, organizational, instructional change. Focus is on teachers in three Massachusetts schools. Reforms must address social and academic needs of students as well as teacher…

Describes a study combining student records with a state-level follow-up system to track demographic, academic, and environmental influences on student attrition. Findings have helped the college investigate myths about students and their progress. (YKH)

This article deals with the current situation of revenues, expenditures and school finance. The authors discuss elaborating conceptions of resources, clarifying why funding is often wasted, and why the translation of funding into effective resources is not straightforward. They discuss their approach of converting revenues to results in a simple…

As everyone enters the 21st Century there is a great deal of discussion in business and education circles alike about the type of skills the youth will need to survive and thrive in this century. At the same time, there is little known today about the level of 21st Century skills students currently have. In part this is because, as a nation,…