The achievement gap between fortunate and less fortunate young children was the leading motivation for expanding and changing the kindergarten curriculum in Montgomery County (Maryland) Public Schools. The more rigorous, new curriculum became accelerated and literacy-based, focusing on mathematics, reading, art, music, and physical education. (MLH)

Describes a qualitative study that investigated the experiences of White male counselors who work with First Nations clients. Results reveal five predominant themes that include the following: encountering difference; establishing relationships; a willingness to learn; evolving professional identities; and impact on self-awareness. Includes…

Successful integration of technology into education calls for a new vision of professional development as an ongoing program aligned with curriculum goals, designed with built-in evaluation, and sustained by adequate financial and staff support. Research identifies three effective collaborative models: peer coaching, study groups, and thematic…

This revised edition of competencies for librarians serving children in public libraries was developed by the American Library Association. Highlights include knowledge of client group; administrative and management skills; communication skills; materials and collection development; skills in developing library programs, advocacy, public…

A survey of 100 principal teachers (department heads) and 69 assistant head teachers in 50 Scottish secondary schools examined their career identities, intentions to seek promotion, out-of-school identities, and negative attitudes toward teaching. Characteristics of "movers" (desiring promotion) and "stoppers" are discussed.…

The University of Southern Maine's Extended Teacher Education Program includes an intensive, year-long internship for liberal arts graduates located at an innovative professional development school. The internship is linked with five Maine school districts participating in the Southern Maine Partnership. Interns must meet 11 standards and prepare…

The professional development plan for the Wichita State University (Kansas) College of Education and the process used to develop it are described. The committee that developed the plan first had to reach consensus on the purpose and nature of professional development. Reflections are offered on why the program has succeeded so well and on the next…

Using NASPA membership directories (n=6,579 entries) as reference points, this longitudinal, descriptive study shows that women have assumed senior level administrative positions, but not in number proportional to the increase of women entering the field. Found women still occupy a disproportionate number of nurturing roles in student affairs.…

A survey of 133 rural Midwestern teachers who had supervised student teachers examined their knowledge of educational psychology. Few teachers had high scores, and scores were unrelated to teaching experience or degree held. Recommends increased emphasis on educational psychology in teacher education, inservice, and professional development…

A recent study surveyed the extent and sources of educators' relevant legal knowledge, their consultation patterns, and everyday legal problems confronting them. Areas of greatest concern were school safety, teacher liability, child protection, and custody and access issues. Training and professional- development implications are discussed.…

Outlines development by the United Kingdom's National Health Service Training Division (NHSTD) of a set of national standards for Information Management and Technology (IM&T) professionals in health care. Describes the technical-rational and "professional artistry" models of education and gives an overview of the Professional Awards…

Presents a strategy for technology integration that can be used effectively with any professional staff development activity. Through properly designed workshops over an academic year, one can facilitate the implementation of change in an educational institution. Discusses focus of the workshops; focus on teachers; spaced practice; workshop…

This article discusses the growing population of students from diverse language backgrounds and the challenges the nation faces in attaining educational equity through the preparation of professionals to meet the educational needs of English-language learners with communication disorders. Skills and competencies needed by educators and…

Presents the address delivered by President Richard Theisen at the 79th National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) Annual Conference in Orlando (Florida). Discusses topics such as improving pre-service teacher education, content of social studies textbooks, staff development for teachers, student assessment, and civics education. (CMK)

Provides annotated bibliographies for five books that are recommended professional reading for librarians serving teens. Topics include American Indian stereotypes in the media; a leadership guide for school library media specialists; views of teens; how teens who are different are often outcasts; and tips for public library young adult services.…