In 1999, things were dismal at Lebanon, Pennsylvania's Harding Elementary School. Many kids in this former coal town started at a disadvantage and never seemed to catch up. They were bored with books about "frogs on logs," says then-new principal Cheryl Champion. Since they were not engaged, they acted out. Harding's classroom…

Presents comments on a case of disagreement between a principal and a teacher concerning the value of pacing. (SS)

Some principals have personalities that can drive teachers around the bend and back again. Sure, most are wonderful bosses who support teachers in any way, but woe betide teachers if they are unlucky enough to run across one of the six dreaded "problem principals" identified in this article. Teachers do not have to be held hostage by difficult…

Research shows that most conflicts between elementary children are rooted in some form of miscommunication. This article makes suggestions for warding off conflicts by improving communication skills, recommending that teachers first model good listening skills, then try several activities that help students practice careful communication skills…

Techniques are presented that can help teachers resolve conflicts that arise in the classroom. Strategies are outlined for working out differences among students or between the teachers and a student and for fostering cooperative attitudes among the children. (PP)

The article presents 10 tips for developing an effective conflict resolution program that provides students with the necessary skills to work issues out peacefully between themselves. Conflict resolution warmup activities from classroom teachers and a guide to conflict resolution resources and programs are also included. (SM)