Success in today's K-12 environment often hinges on improved test scores. But success should be defined more broadly to recognize the overall learning environment that is created by students, teachers, staff members, administrators, and parents. As a middle level principal, the author has learned that to create long-lasting change and to foster a…

Court cases regarding students' rights are little changed from previous years. The majority of the litigation relates either to clarification of existing law or to suits alleging illegal actions by school administrators and teachers. The issues of corporal punishment and freedom of expression appear to be somewhat settled. The rights of mentally…

This paper highlights the religious accommodations that Ontario (Canada) universities have undertaken to create an inclusive, supportive learning community for all students, faculty, and staff. It outlines the demographic changes and public policy surrounding religious accommodation issues in Canada and in Ontario in particular, focusing on the…

Emphasizing the necessity for open communication and respect for everyone's rights as the best way to prevent problems at school, this paper offers information and advice to both students and parents (in separate sections) on their rights relating to public education. The topics range from discrimination, due process, and disciplinary measures to…