Provides European evidence supporting the notion that high academic standards and knowledge of the importance of education can help average students excel in school. A typical, average 9th- and 10th-grade test is provided to illustrate what average students can achieve under educational systems designed to elicit the best from all. (GR)

Using longitudinal data on sanctions against member schools of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, this study examined density of competition and legitimacy of rules as regulatory dynamics across organizations. The legitimacy of rules varied across schools and regions, creating different cultures of competition that affected the…

Recognizing staff development's importance, the Austin (Texas) Independent School District implemented an ambitious districtwide program that provides all K-8 teachers with training to implement mathematics standards. An evaluation found that improved math instruction was influenced by school culture, principal support, and teacher collaboration.…

One of the methods moving to the fore in aligning curriculum to standards is computer-based Instructional Management Systems (IMS). Reports on the process used by the Palm Beach County School District to select and implement an IMS to improve teaching, providing some basic information which other districts or schools can use in their own search…

Identifies the vital aspects of U.S. and world history, and of the related social sciences, to be offered to all Washington D.C. public school students. Identifies the essential learning for the preparation of each student as an effective worker, citizen, and person. Provides in detail the seven content standards for history. (CMK)

In May 2000, 35 principals from across the nation met to define their role in implementing rigorous academic curricula to promote student achievement. Their observations concerning effects of school climate, resources, staffing, equal access, professional development, sustained leadership, and program assessment are discussed. (MLH)

To meet rigorous new graduation requirements, an upstate New York district rejected "packing" and pullout programs in favor of differentiation via individual learning-style instruction, Socratic seminars, performance-based assessment, tiered assignments, and academic intervention. Detracking forced staff to consider more inclusive…

Suggests that mandatory placement of underprepared students in developmental courses may actually provide the key to opening the door to true academic, vocational, or community success, despite criticism by some that it excludes students and restricts their freedoms. Discusses ethical balances between access, student success and academic…

Presents an activity on waves that addresses the state standards and benchmarks of Michigan. Demonstrates waves and studies wave's medium, motion, and frequency. The activity is designed to address different learning styles. (YDS)

Explores the content of the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) and describes similarities between the ITBS and the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) standards. Addresses three NCSS standards and how each may be represented on a standardized test. Provides eight confidence-boosting principles. (CMK)

Investigated the relationship between professional development and the raising of academic standards and attainment, exploring the perceptions of British secondary school senior managers regarding this relationship and noting their attitudes about barriers to organizational translation of professional development into improved student achievement.…

Describes results from a 3-year study of charter schools in Alberta, Canada. Case studies of Alberta's 12 charter schools (involving document review, interviews, observations, and surveys) indicated that parents, teachers, and students were very satisfied with the schools, and there were steady levels of student enrollment. Most of the schools…

Improving school leadership quality must start with leadership standards. The Interstate School Leaders Licensure Consortium (ISLLC) developed standards for use in all school leadership positions. This paper describes: how to use the standards for principals' professional development; how to ensure quality preservice administrator preparation; how…

Suggests that for university teachers to be regarded internationally as globally competent teachers, they need to go beyond academic subject knowledge and accredited pedagogic skills by adopting not only a transformatory and democratic approach to education, but also an ethnographic stance to teaching abroad. (Contains 19 references.) (AEF)

Linking language assessments is a matter of greater concern with the advent of educational frameworks used to orient curricula and profile attainment. Outlines practical ways the principles of techniques recognized for linking separate assessments--equating, calibrating, statistical moderation, predicting (or benchmarking), and social moderation…