In September 1983 representatives of the National Association of Elementary School Principals and other interested groups held a conference at Wisconsin's Wingspread Center to discuss the challenge posed to elementary education by recent calls for excellence in education and to begin the process of developing appropriate plans for action. (PGD)

Describes why the National Association of Elementary School Principals developed its "Standards for Quality Elementary Schools: Kindergarten through Eighth Grade," how the standards differ from those of accrediting agencies, how the standards should be used, who will receive them, and what impact they may have. (PGD)

The author presents a number of factors that underscore the educational advantages of focusing on a Pre-K-3 school configuration, including the need for less remediation and more productive learning in the upper elementary and secondary grades. He describes a self-contained Pre-K-3 continuum, including universal pre-kindergarten and full-day…

Documents the rapid expansion of after-school programs and emphasizes the importance of program quality. Identifies the characteristics of quality programs and offers four "principles for principals" for those who wish to introduce or improve after-school programs in their schools. (Author/MLF)

Describes 10 warning signals of potential or actual problems within a school's talented and gifted education program. Eight references are appended. (IW)

Studies confirm the educational advantages and cost-effectiveness of high-quality early childhood programs and have made more persuasive the argument for developing such programs. The most important determinants of such programs are: group size, qualifications and training of staff, stability of care, and adult-child ratio. (MD)

Several common factors set two New York middle schools apart from less effective schools: pride in the program, optimism concerning its effectiveness, variety in offerings and scheduling, opportunities for professional development, staff loyalty, excellent use of resources, good community leadership, high parent involvement, and healthy…

Sets forth the essential characteristics of Japan's approach to education, including the content, structure, and objectives of public schools; teaching conditions, teaching methods, and the characteristics of teachers; the role of parents; the role of supplemental private education; and the cultural factos that underlie the system's…