Offers suggestions on how to update a board's policy manual. (IRT)

Board members in smaller districts need to overcome their fear, distrust, and indifference toward written board policies long enough to adopt policies in certain crucial areas. (Author/IRT)

Argues that policies with ideas to develop the talents of people deserve more board time and energy than policies prescribing ways to handle things or to manage noneducational operations. (Author/JF)

This paper discusses the public relations problem facing school boards and suggests board action to alleviate these problems. The author emphasizes that one of the most critical instruments of public relations is the board meeting. To improve board meetings as mediums of public relations, the author suggests (1) improving procedures for handling…

Effective board meetings result from planning what is to happen before the meeting, during the meeting, and the steps to be taken after the meeting. (Author)

After reviewing the history of commencement exercises, the author discusses areas that boards of education should address in setting policy on topics such as who can participate in graduation ceremonies. (IRT)

The author provides an overview of the responsibilities of a school board member. Beginning with a view of the origins and constraints of the board's authority--federal and state law and, increasingly, court decisions--the author examines the board member's responsibilities in the areas of directing the educational system, making decisions that…

Examines ways the public schools have approached religion and court cases centering on religion in the schools. Outlines some traps that boards of education should avoid in setting policy on the inclusion of religion and religious holidays in the schools. (IRT)

Examines the movement for minimal competencies in the schools. (IRT)

Tells how school boards can foster report card reform through the development of wise policy. (Author)

Evaluates the work of the boards of education in promoting and enhancing the schooling of America's children and youth. (Author/RK)

Behavioral scientists maintain that a board-superintendent relationship thrives only within a total organization that is sound and healthy. To develop such an organization, agreement should be reached at the onset on what exactly is board policy and prerogative and what is in the administrative domain. A board must develop its goals with the…

Nine chapters and an introduction discuss the issues surrounding school closures and declining enrollment and suggest practical solutions. Each chapter examines a particular facet of the problem, presents brief case studies of successful experiences, and mentions sources for further information. The topics covered include: (1) demographic changes…