Describes a "Volunteer Reader" project in which volunteers from the community read and respond to student essays. Lists typical questions and answers that address the logistics of the project. Notes that the project has spread to the district level. (RS)

Prescribes engaging the public in the actual pains and rewards of reading and writing as a way of battling the public schools' negative image. (JL)

Presents a list of suggestions for using the telephone that intend to make the most of opportunities to strengthen the bond between the school and the community. (EL)

Explains the news values that journalists use. Shows English teachers and administrators how they can apply this knowledge of news media to improve public relations between the school and the community. (RL)

Offers suggestions on how English teachers can take a central role in public relations efforts with parents and the community. (RL)

Uses information from the ERIC system to show educators how to promote a positive public image. (RL)

Describes how two teachers at the author's middle school went through a censorship challenge, a difficult experience that ultimately helped teachers and administrators clarify and improve the process of meeting such challenges in the future. Argues that having a written, district-supported procedure for handling challenges, with which all are…