A long-term approach to collective bargaining is presented that involves school administrators and the union working together in a collaborative process of negotiation. In this way the bargaining process works as a series of opportunities for both parties to solve mutual problems. (MD)

A long-range planning project in an Ohio school district involved setting up good procedures for planning and then establishing a 40-member planning committee that included 20 community members. Long-range goals serve as a focus for decision making in everyday administration. (MLF)

In megaplanning, a type of strategic planning, the primary clients and beneficiaries are the community and society at large. Outlines a 12-step planning model. (MLF)

A six-step plan that helps manage school decline is presented. (DCS)

Selecting a site for a new school is an important decision for school board members. To avoid site-selection catastrophes, ask for a report about the planning steps. Document estimates of purchase and development costs; and project budget and a timeline for acquisition, design, and construction. Questions that should be answered are listed. (MLF)

Redrawing school attendance boundaries is one of the most sensitive tasks a school board faces. Factors to consider include the following: (1) life span of the change; (2) effective date; (3) racial balance; (4) resource equity; and (5) program, public, and financial impact. Outlines a process for developing redistricting plans. (MLF)

An administrator offers seven areas of advice for school officials to follow to lessen the chances of litigation and increase the chances of prevailing in court if lawsuits are filed against them. (MD)

After tornado leveled Grand Prairie Elementary School (Joliet, Illinois), concerted effort by architects and the school community paid off when new school was opened two years later. Hallways in new building are staggered throughout school to avoid the creation of wind tunnels in event of another tornado. Guidelines for disaster preparations…

By developing broad community input and support, a Louisiana district (Monroe City Schools) passed a $59 million property tax package. Offers 10 strategies for winning campaigns. (MLF)

As serving as its own contractor, a small district in western Montana saved money, had better control over the project, and inspired public confidence. Major advantages were cost savings, controlling the pace of construction, and the ability to cope with change orders. (MLF)

With a new round of school construction on the horizon, planners must consider such energy conservation measures as placing energy consumption limitations in design specifications, retaining experienced engineers, using staff expertise, considering boilers offering fuel options, seeking outside assistance, resisting use of existing plans, and…

School boards need to be prepared to deal with potential disasters. Four districts whose school board presidents dealt with serious emergencies are described. The emergencies included the murder of a superintendent, a flood, a statewide teacher walkout, and the threat of financial collapse. (MD)

Teachers at Pawtucket, Rhode Island, schools are developing a new approach to Title I, the federal program for disadvantaged students. Included are high academic standards, ongoing professional development, and developing a long-range plan. A sidebar lists web sites that offer information on Title I programs, especially effective schoolwide…

Experiences of a Michigan school district provide a case study for examining the political, economic, and community-relations issues embedded in a decision to privatize. Support can be achieved only if all parties feel they were given adequate attention during deliberations on the issue. (MLF)

In school construction projects a great deal of work and planning needs to happen before ground breaking starts. Lists consistent factors that should always be considered when setting up a facility-design timeline. (MLF)