Although some board members and superintendents may consider superintendent evaluation as potentially disturbing for their working relationships, such evaluations may become more appealing when considered as part of a broader system of school governance and management. What is needed is a performance appraisal system developed jointly by…

This handbook is a guide to the collective bargaining process for school board members. It emphasizes the need for school boards to take the initiative in setting goals, reducing the potential for friction, and preserving management prerogatives against the competing responsibility to bargain in good faith under the law. Chapter 1 describes the…

As an aid to New Jersey school board members, administrators, and attorneys without extensive labor law training, this revised edition of a handbook on the New Jersey Employer-Employee Relations Act sets out school boards' basic obligations and rights under the law in light of changes brought about by recent agency and court cases. Its six…

Citing examples from a successful district improvement plan used in Greensville County, Virginia, this paper lists and explains ways a school board can improve teacher competence. After warning that measures that work in one school district may not work in others, the author suggests that school boards should set high district standards, insist on…

This booklet addresses student membership on local boards of education. It is intended to serve as guide for boards considering adding youth to their membership. It discusses the following topics: (1) the benefits to both students and the board of youth serving as board members; (2) researching issues before accepting students on boards; (3)…

The celebration of the bicentennial of the United States Constitution will begin Fall 1987 and last until 1991. Outlines the national programs, exhibitions and festivals, and curriculum materials available for educators on the bicentennial. (MD)

Answers to nine questions will help school boards know if curriculum development is being carried out properly in their school systems. (MLF)

To lead effectively and contribute to a successful board-superintendent relationship, board presidents are advised to consider specific guidelines, such as knowing their job's responsibilities and limitations, offering advice, representing the board's will, setting agendas in advance, scheduling work sessions prior to regular meetings, and…

Common law grants immunity for defamatory statements to administrative bodies such as boards. The limitations under which board participants function in relation to immunity from defamation suits are outlined. Includes discussion of specific court cases. (MD)

An innovative approach called "academic spotlight," focusing on positive aspects of school district accomplishments, is described. Principals and teachers plan presentations for board meetings that focus on successes and enrich the relationship between the board and employees. (MD)

When selecting a new superintendent, school boards should search nationwide, decide on hiring consultants, set a timetable with deadlines, produce a brochure about the job, the community, and the school system, involve everyone affected by the choice, determine the characteristics sought, and review applications as they come in. (RW)

Discusses school board members' expenses that may be tax deductible, including newsletter funds and such business expenses as those for travel, telephone calls, organizational dues, professional publications, cards, gifts, entertainment, and a home office. (JM)

Offers advice for selection of a new superintendent. (WD)

Discusses some current suspect practices in the sales of class rings and photographs to high school students. Outlines some board policies that can correct or prevent these abuses. (IRT)

A "pro-management" leadership stance means that board members and administrators run schools so that employees are comfortable bringing concerns to management directly rather than through a union. (Author/IRT)