An elementary school principal provides a Professional Development School (PDS) model that can help close the experience gap for new teachers and better prepare them for the "real world" of the classroom.

First, third, and fifth graders master advanced vocabulary through a principal's "word for the day" strategy. Volunteer students look up the word in the dictionary, write the definition on the board, use it in a sentence, and create a poster. Retention is periodically tested and prizes awarded for top performance. (MJL)

Teachers and staff as well as students are not immune to substance abuse. Presented are simple guidelines on what to look for in physical effects, what to do if someone is suspected, and how to get help. (SI)

Examined are 14 leadership tenets of a successful principal as discussed by Wess Roberts in "Leadership Secrets of Attila the Hun." Leadership strategies are analogized in relation to decisive action on the battleground. (SI)