National right-wing media and their viewers are alleging that critical race theory (CRT) is "infecting" public school classrooms, fueling an assault on how schools should discuss race, racism, and our nation's history. This turmoil over curriculum and teaching "sensitive" topics is deeply upsetting to teachers. Principals can…

To establish an effective, collaborative work culture, the school and its members must embrace continuous improvement. Principals can use certain activities and leadership approaches to help establish a productive school culture. One Oklahoma middle-school principal involved faculty in creating a school vision and developing grade-level teaching…

Traditionally, local school districts have shouldered the burden of funding school infrastructure in the name of local control, relying upon local property tax revenues and the willingness of local voters to approve bond issues. Given vast disparities in school districts' property wealth, gross inequities in school facilities will remain without…

Defines vandalism, explains several types of vandalism, and examines the monetary and social impact of vandalism. (JM)

Many talented beginning teachers leave the profession in the first 2 years. The author explores the reasons and presents a plan for principals to follow to help retain beginning teachers. (MD)

Outlines the School Climate Audit, a self-assessment system based on 12 factors that have been identified as determinants in successful schools. (MD)

Iroquois Middle School (Michigan) has a five-fold and ongoing positive reinforcement program of birthday cards, student of the month, personalized report cards, positive notes and phone calls, and student awards. (MLF)

Instruction can be enhanced via counselor involvement in the classroom, which this article describes. (LD)

Although bringing a personalized learning environment to a small school is challenging in its own right, it is much easier than personalizing the environment of a large school. This article describes the interventions used in one suburban school with over 3,700 students to move the learning environment toward a more personalized climate. The…

Charts modern phenomena (technology, urbanization, affluence, large institutions, mass media, and others) that affect human interactions and teach certain attitudes. Provides supporting statistics to show increases in youth suicide, illegitimate births, delinquency, substance abuse, and homicide. Outlines desirable school changes producing modest…

In Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis at East Tennessee State University, faculty members feel open, honest discussion of departmental issues helps create a healthy learning atmosphere. A graduate student can be found at most meetings and is often consulted regarding pertinent issues. Seminars for principals involve real-life…

This article explores what it takes to develop systemic strategies and structures that engage youth as coconstructors of their learning environment and experience. It looks at efforts nationwide to engage young people in educational change endeavors, draws on lessons learned from a national high school reform initiative, and addresses some…

Examines three collaborative action research projects on school effectiveness--one each in Texas, Iowa, and Florida--to show how university and secondary school personnel can cooperate to implement research findings in schools. (JW)

Within a context of ambivalence and limited resources, school administrators are challenged to create conditions that enable gifted students to thrive. This article discusses how to create learning environments that stimulate talent development; illustrates how the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy created an environment that fosters deep…

One high school principal gained a new perspective on his small school by donning an outsider's hat and visiting school grounds, hallways, and classrooms and noting areas needing improvement. Ideas for helping principals of small schools improve school climate, physical plant attractiveness, and overall educational excellence are discussed. (MLH)