This article provides the transcript of Dr. Rupert Higham (University College London, Institute of Education) in conversation with Dr. James Biddulph (Headteacher of the University of Cambridge Primary School). Among the topics discussed are: What the University of Cambridge Primary School (UCPS) motto, "Releasing the Imagination: Celebrating…

These days, information overload seems to be the normal state of existence. School leaders are inundated with descriptions of best practices and programs that work. They are exhorted to use evidence in all facets of decision-making and to employ research-based strategies to improve schools. Of course, research findings are seldom definitive, and…

While the 2011-2012 school year offered educators a sketch of the Common Core State Standards and how they would impact teaching and learning, this year that painting takes shape. Many states and districts are well on the way to implementing the standards--but the process is complex, especially for the school leaders who shoulder the task of…

Different groups have different ideas about how schools should be restructured. Although decision-making and control are increasingly shared with other groups, the principal remains most accountable. Innovative leadership styles, such as the inhouse critic and the master generalist, address issues of curriculum totality, function, and goals.…

Briefly describes the experiences of three principals to illustrate the most important elements contributing to an innovation's success: understanding of the central concept, commitment to its objectives, negotiation with competing environmental pressures, allocation of resources, clarification of roles, encouragement of participation, provision…

Although collective bargaining agreements can inhibit the principal's instructional role, it is still possible to be both contract administrator and instructional leader. (Author/JM)

This article explores the impact of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) on the behavior of teachers and school leaders, specifically the centralizing, standardizing tendencies of the legislation, and juxtaposes their reactions to the types of teaching and leadership required to lead 21st-century schools. The authors argue that the isomorphic…

A step-by-step process for changing curriculum, based on research by both the Ford and Danforth Foundations, stresses that administrators and teachers must work together to bring about meaningful change. (Author/MLF)

Discusses four complementary interventions required for principals to improve classroom visits: Provide clear, grade-specific curriculum proficiency targets; develop results-oriented, teacher team-planned curriculum units; adopt Japanese lesson study approach to teaching; and use data to improve teaching and learning. (PKP)

In an interview published in the June 1980 issue of "Principal," Paul Collins, pioneer principal of a model New Hampshire middle school, called for a real understanding of preadolescent students. The school has continued its experiential learning emphasis and has become involved in action research projects, such as an intensive inservice…

This paper addresses the question, "What potentialities lie in the use of 'informal networks' for the improvement of problem-solving in American public schools?" The first section consists of a close examination of the charge with consideration of networking and problem-solving capacity. In the second section, some of the constraints that affect…

Nine educators present their views on the Carnegie report. Some present criticisms and question the validity of the proposed changes, especially the call for collective leadership of schools. Many express support for what they feel are significant proposals for change. (MD)

Discusses the differences between traditional pedagogical methods and small-group cooperative learning. Describes the benefits of the cooperative approach, including emphasis on learning rather than on competition, improved comprehension, and increased social awareness. Provides hints for administrators implementing cooperative learning programs.…

This book examines caring from three perspectives. It opens with a discussion of Nel Noddings's caring tenets--caring is collaborative, situational, reciprocal, and committed--that are seen as necessary for an ethic of caring. A critique of an ethic of caring from the viewpoints of caring with leadership, caring as a "female ethic,"…

The major problem for principals using the outcomes-based paradigm is convincing teachers that outcomes are the appropriate criteria for judging effectiveness. Although risking teacher backlash, the principal as instructional leader has the opportunity to provide a climate where everyone is both a learner and a teacher. Includes five references.…