Presents a blueprint for developing a consistent drug-and-alcohol-use policy that has been used nationwide by school systems to fit their own local circumstances. (MLF)

The Denver, Colorado, school board has an agenda summary sheet that streamlines communication between the board and staff members. The form, placed after the title sheet of any proposal, lists background issues, options and alternatives considered, and implications of adoption or rejection. (MLF)

This handbook contains specific suggestions and activities designed to assist small, rural school districts in identifying local resources for determining their readiness and capacity for curriculum renewal. State education agencies are becoming more active in curriculum issues, with new standards guiding local resources, practices, and learning…

This handbook sets out guidelines for the administration of resource centers for schools in the Northwest Territories, Canada, offers definitions of suitable and adequate resource services, and may be used as a planning tool for management staff. Four major topics are covered: (1) jurisdictional roles and responsibilities of the Department of…

As a result of the National Commission on Excellence in Education report and other recent studies, an increasing number of governors and state legislators have sought to establish new requirements and minimum standards statewide. Addressing the potential threat that these requirements represent to local school boards in their efforts to maintain…

This literature-based paper attempts to delineate the role of various groups in controlling special education in public schools. The paper argues that historically education has been a local matter, but contemporary interpreation tends to view education as a societal issue, a view which provides the impetus for education to become a state function…

Advice and tested methods for management of meetings from superintendents and board members are combined in this reference book on conducting effective school board meetings. Intended for a wide readership, it contains three chapters and an exhibit section comprising over one-third of the document. Following a brief introduction, chapter 1,…

Drawing on current research and practice, this monograph is designed to help school boards deal with the important question of parent involvement. The first of five chapters examines the benefits of parent involvement in education. Next, the current demographic and societal trends that make involving parents more difficult than previously are…

As an aid for school board members, this handbook offers advice on selecting central-office and building administrators. The introduction discusses the board's role in administrator selection, lists 16 areas in which board policies are needed, and suggests criteria and information needed for board policies. Chapter 1 reviews recent changes in the…

Designed as a discussion guide for administrators and school board members, this paper deals with the issue of "fair process" for school administrators. Fair process is defined as the right to be supplied with fair notice, probable causes, opportunity for improvement, and right to appeal prior to dismissal, nonrenewal, or demotion. The…

The number of sex discrimination complaints within school districts has risen in the last few years. Recent court rulings are cited, including estimated costs to the board. Outlines steps that a board can take to reduce the chances of sex discrimination occurring in a school district. (MLF)

Suggestions to boards of education on handling an impasse situation in bargaining are given. Boards are advised to fully assess the possibility of gaining an acceptable agreement at the beginning of the negotiation session. If this cannot be done, six assumptions are offered as good advice in dealing with all impasse situations. Advice written by…

The computer phenomenon has made rapid inroads into school curricula, often without proper board guidance or approval. Accordingly, this pamphlet discusses why and how computer education should be provided in schools and sets forth guidelines for school board policy regarding computers. An umbrella policy is proposed, defining "computer literacy"…

The purpose of this handbook is to give both new and veteran California school board members a guide to the process of collective bargaining. In general, the board's role in collective bargaining is defined as including developing goals, selecting the board's representative, developing parameters, maintaining communications with the public,…

Describes seven main power tactics used by teacher unions in strike situations. Recommends a program of advocacy communication strategies that school boards can follow in fostering positive community relations before and during a strike. (IW)