The college or university human resources department's responsibilities in assuring a healthy and safe environment are enumerated. First, issues to be considered in school safety are outlined, and then the role of the health and safety officer is discussed. A sample job description and list of duties are included. (MSE)

Increasingly, elementary schools are expected to serve as centers in a systematic network of child services. If schools become umbrella social service agencies, their historic educational function may be jeopardized. Perhaps local social service agencies should set up field offices in school buildings with their own staffs and managers. (MLH)

Because families and communities often fail to meet adolescents' need to belong to a productive, functional organization, schools are increasingly fulfilling this role. Membership depends on social bonding, which has four elements: attachment, commitment, involvement, and belief. Principals can remove impediments to membership by fostering a sense…

A discussion of issues influencing the status of majority/minority relations on college campuses concludes that the changes needed to make educational opportunities equal for all are still strongly opposed but that institutions must be committed to making academic services and social resources available to all students. (MSE)

This article reviews case law regarding the recovery of attorney's fees for counsel services prior to holding a special education hearing within the legal parameters of Public Law 99-372, the Handicapped Children's Protection Act of 1986. Implications suggest that schools should establish mechanisms to avoid costly legal involvements and states…

Explains schools' responsibilities in complying with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. Describes exposure determination plan, protective equipment, housekeeping practices, labeling of waste, training employees, hepatitis B vaccinations, postexposure evaluation and medical follow-up, and…

A growing number of experts and ordinary citizens are realizing that our current drug policies are immoral, wasteful, inefficient, un-American, and more harmful than beneficial. The Drug War places U.S. liberties, communities, and children at risk. A sidebar outlines drug abuse lies promulgated by the media. Another sidebar provides seven…

Problems encountered by some students, particularly in job searches, when date of birth is indicated on academic records are discussed, and record-keeping and identification strategies to alleviate them are outlined, including not printing birthdates on transcripts, using a different identifying number, or using another method for matching…

Guidelines for dealing openly and directly with potential conflicts of interest in university research administration are offered to help administrators balance the institutional risks and benefits of relationships and interests faculty may have with outside agencies or companies. Advice for developing effective policies and procedures are also…

The legal risks taken by an institution in sponsoring outdoor activities are discussed, drawing on decisions in court litigation. Topics addressed include negligence, degree of risk, spectator safety, athlete safety, release forms, and immunity. The role of adequate precautionary measures is emphasized. (MSE)

Through membership in intergovernmental cooperatives designed to provide liability protection, school districts can achieve greater control over insurance products at all levels. Defines terms, lists self-insurance pool contract provisions, and discusses dangers and miscellaneous issues for self-insurance pools. (MLF)

New federal rules mandate drug and alcohol testing for all school district employees who are required to have a commercial driver's license. Describes the major elements of a testing program and the types of testing required. Recommends building support for the testing program by involving employee labor leaders, board members, and a cross-section…

Adolescent childbearing is embedded in persuasive societal problems and is not limited to ethnic minority groups or females. Although youth are reaching biological maturity earlier, society has delayed their acceptance as adults by requiring more years of education to secure decent employment. Also, today's economy makes family formation more…

Sedentary lifestyles and obesity are leading causes of several diseases. About 20% of today's teenagers are overweight; 50% will become overweight adults. Effective health-education classes and physical education that focus on lifelong physical/mental well-being are needed. Administrators should evaluate students' health and fitness. (MLH)

Research shows that many students lack civic engagement, civic literacy, and the disposition toward becoming responsible citizens. Teachers must convey the meaning of citizenship and its context, rights, and responsibilities. Project Citizen, Outward Bound, and service learning programs can help students learn democratic participation behaviors.…