Discusses some of the relationships between rhetoric and the concepts of leadership and the "polis" (the active assembly of citizens empowered to discuss and make public policy). Argues that the study of leadership belongs in composition, rhetoric, and communication and that scholars and teachers are more than justified in studying…

In a community capacity building project, family and consumer sciences professionals developed a family resource center to provide programs and services to strengthen families. The project exemplifies the civic engagement role of the profession. (SK)

Describes an "eco-count" project that led to the creation of a community map and educational game being painted on an elementary school playground. The multidisciplinary project involved students, teachers, parents, and other community members and the resulting map includes sections related to the local "green environment", "built environment",…

Introduces a tool for rethinking the sources of the distinctions between "us" and "them." Considers two approaches to extending the reach of organizational communication research based on this framework. Hopes to move organizational communication concepts into more influential positions in the existing network of practice, and that doing so will…

Describes a process used by an architect to work with the stakeholders of a school in Iceland to design a new building. The process, called "design down," starts with the biggest issues and moves toward more detailed aspects. It starts with looking at the school's learning signature, learning expectations, the learning process, and the…

Analyzes two cultures that emerged from a school/community partnership to develop high school students' competencies as environmental practitioners and serve the needs of a community-based environmental organization. Identifies the constraints on students' development within two settings and recommends making both cultures more conducive to…

The historical focus of home economics is on the well-being of the individual and the family. The promotion of individual autonomy is, therefore, an appropriate mission for home economics education. (SK)

Questions the optimistic view of community participation in low income housing policy and projects. Claims that participation is often absent or present in such a fashion that it is useless. Provides case studies of projects in Karachi, Madras, and Tunis. (JOW)

A survey of 44 retired faculty members, 6 community site administrators, and 14 course participants found all groups enthusiastic about community education programs presented by the retirees. Principles critical to program success are the effort should represent paid services; retirees and sites should be carefully screened and matched; and…

To help determine how limited funding resources might best improve school facilities, the Beaufort County (South Carolina) Schools instituted a broad-based citizens' facilities planning committee. After assessing needs, visiting schools, and gathering sufficient information, a coherent plan was adopted and a countywide bond referendum introduced…

Principals can enhance their leadership role and improve school effectiveness by incorporating a mentorship program within the curriculum as an integral part of the total school program. Such programs ensure more efficient resource use (without generating additional district costs) and facilitate greater community involvement. Additional positive…

Provides testimony from five elementary school principals concerning the Skills for Growing Program piloted in U.S. and Canadian schools during 1987-1988. Principals stress the program's beneficial effects on student self-esteem, community involvement, curriculum enrichment, and staff morale. (MLH)

A Midwest superintendent describes some painful on-the-job experiences. To regain community acceptance and support, educators must understand and respect community history, apply classroom-inspired lessons to relationships with parents, involve the community meaningfully, recognize the failings of New Age terminology, understand families'…

Eleven focus groups with teachers and administrators in rural Iowa revealed that educators perceive many parents as uninterested, unable, or unwilling to be involved in schools and having unrealistic expectations of the school's role. They believe the door is open for parental involvement and perceive a relationship between parent participation…

In Boston, the Urban District Assessment Consortium's accountability assessments evaluate at the school/district level. Community members participate in test development, administration, rating, and reporting. Community involvement enables consideration of multiple perspectives and equitable expectations and opportunities. (SK)