Principals should perform functions in three major areas: (1) interpersonal relationships (leader, figurehead, liaison); (2) information processing (disseminator, spokesperson); and (3) decision making (change agent, disturbance handler, resource allocator, negotiator, and evaluator). (CL)

Offers suggestions to help secondary school administrators develop evaluation schemes that support the improvement of instruction, including separating accountability and supervisory functions, basing observation criteria on research, and making evaluation criteria specific. (FL)

Tables of general characteristics of philosophies, administrative theories, and administrative practices related to the theories are presented to help school administrators assess their own beliefs and values and move toward the consistent conceptual framework necessary for improving their administrative behavior. (MJL)

This report is intended to help institutions review their arrangements for student administration through comparisons with generally recognized good practice and with specific developments and experience in the sector. This study from which the information on good practices was derived was conducted through visits to 11 pilot institutions to…

The "Heeding New Voices" study, a year-long series of structured interviews with new faculty and graduate students aspiring to be faculty members around the country, sought both to give voice to those who are just beginning their academic careers and to provide guidance for the senior faculty, chairs, deans, and others in higher…

A reduction in force (RIF) policy not exclusively based on seniority includes appeal procedures and provisions for teachers nearing retirement. A point system determines RIF order: supervisors assess teachers' planning and organization, instructional techniques, classroom and school environment, and professional attitude. Education, teaching…

Discusses the importance of staff development as reflected in the literature and describes the role of the chief student affairs officer. Presents a systematic process for designing and implementing staff development programs and identifies some obstacles to successful efforts. (JAC)

Teachers just out of college need the help of their principals in adjusting to their new roles. This article discusses six difficulties that often face new teachers and suggests eight long-term orientation techniques that have proved successful. (PGD)

To cope with declining high school enrollments, administrators can find new clients, programs, and functions or can cut back by dropping "frills" or closing schools. Guidelines for cuts include three approaches: the rational, cutting the least effective programs; the political, acknowledging political realities; and the symbolic,…

Offers cost-saving suggestions for school management regarding staff, equipment and machinery, materials, and vandalism and theft prevention. (WD)

Reports on observations in 34 class periods of six elementary teachers teaching spelling. Notes that much of the time was not devoted to actual instruction. Reviews the methods of spelling instruction that research has found effective and recommends ways that administrators can help improve spelling instruction, including classroom observation.…

Cites a case involving a superintendent's cancellation of an objectionable school play and outlines how to make sure decisions about such matters will hold up in court. (JM)

A review of several well-known studies of schooling suggests that schools--and their principals--can indeed make a difference. The authors suggest four keys to improving the training and practice of the building principal. (Author)

Defines and describes stress and its causes. Suggests ways administrators can help teachers manage stress effectively. (WD)

Suggests how personal and situational aspects of decision making can contribute to effective leadership strategies. Discusses the administrator's role and program development and clientele. (CT)