Describes a successful K-12 alcohol/drug prevention program in Burlington, Washington, involving strong superintendent leadership and a close school-community partnership. The program boasts a mission to develop an alcohol- and drug-free environment, long-range planning, reliance on local data, a strong adult influence, appropriate funding, and…

A carefully prepared agenda is the first step toward a successful school board meeting. Board members should receive the agenda and supporting materials before the agenda becomes public. Guidelines are suggested for ordering agenda items and preparing an evaluation form. (MLF)

A study was conducted to determine the knowledge of superintendents of Ohio comprehensive high schools toward adult vocational agricultural education. A summary of the demographic data revealed that 63 percent of the superintendents administered programs of adult vocational agriculture. Concepts on the survey with which superintendents agreed and…

Even though most decisions are made before they reach the superintendent's desk, and even though these are times of "litigious paranoia," the superintendent is still in charge of the public schools. Some of the responsibilities of the superintendent are outlined. (MLW)

Once the decision has been made to dismiss a school executive, the relationship should be concluded in a private manner with adequate severance pay and outplacement services provided. Preparation for potential dismissal can help executives avoid some employment crises and ease the impact of others. (MLF)

Discusses ideas for educational reform suggested by candidates for the position of Chancellor of the New York City school system in 1983, which were goal-oriented and specific rather than philosophical and political. Describes how the ultimate hiring selection was made. (KH)

Studies the leadership behavior characteristics among occupationally mobile and nonmobile superintendents to find consistent qualities of the mobile group. (JW)

Outlines a 10-point plan for promoting a positive school-community relationship in small school systems. The ten points are: (1) develop public relations policy, (2) do research, (3) correct deficiencies, (4) set goals, (5) promote candor, (6) attend to internal relations, (7) attend to external relations, (8) maintain good media relations, (9)…

Provides newly hired superintendents with factors to consider when negotiating 10 elements of their own contracts: salary, insurance, term of office, relocation expenses, vacation, sick leave, travel expenses, administrative authority, automobile use, and exit expenses. (PGD)

A total of 396 districts responded from all 50 states and the District of Columbia to this survey about administrative positions, with full-time teachers as a comparison point, in the areas of base salaries, bonuses, benefits, and perquisites. (MLF)

In addition to serving as managers and teachers, superintendents must exercise considerable political skill to meet the varying demands placed on school administrations by school boards responding to changing public pressures. Managing the conflict growing out of these multiple roles is the sign of an excellent superintendent. (PGD)

A school effectiveness process developed by the Connecticut State Department of Education advocates a voluntary, school-based approach that helps the faculty to examine itself in relationship to seven effectiveness characteristics and to develop and implement an action plan that addresses instruction, curriculum, organizational dynamics, and…

An emphasis on efficiency among public school superintendents did not emerge full-blown at the end of the nineteenth century, as Callahan argues, but was a basic tenet of earlier public school development and reform. This interest in providing economical and socially efficient institutions is crucial to understanding American education. (IS)

Bernard Hatch, the aggressive superintendent of schools in Dayton, Ohio, was voted out by the board of education despite an excellent record of accomplishments. His fate bodes ill for urban school districts in general, where those with the integrity and grit to do what is necessary often become unpopular. (TE)

Studied the role of such professional contacts as consultants, mentors, and advisors (specifically Blacks) in the selection and placement of Black school superintendents. Found that White consultants were disproportionately selected by school boards to advise on hiring decisions. Holds that sponsorship, mentorship, and networking control and limit…