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…

Describes Albuquerque (New Mexico) Public Schools' development of a model to forecast enrollment growth. Recommendations include studying local demographics, seeking clues to future development, examining the age of neighborhoods, adding up rental property, and developing strong professional relationships with city planners, real estate…

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 good technology plan for a school district recognizes that implementing technology is an ongoing process, not a one-time matter. A number of experts answer questions concerning technology planning and purchasing. Technology in a solid long-term plan is described as adaptable, compatible, reliable, flexible, upgradable, nonproprietary, open, and…

The author describes his own school closure procedures in the Paramus, New Jersey, school district of which he is superintendent, advocating long-range planning and an emphasis on the educational benefits of such closures. Also included is advice on when and how to lay off administrators. (JBM)

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

Most school board members and superintendents want to leave a lasting legacy to their district. To do this, they need to acknowledge that large-scale change is complex and takes time and that the system will outlast them. Board members can give their communities the gifts of vision, process, and competence. (MLF)

Outlines 11 essential qualities needed in a good school board president. (MD)

Guidelines are offered for profitably disposing of surplus school property. Included are instructions for conducting building and site analyses and market studies. (MLF)

Describes how three Colorado school systems joined together and set up a dropout prevention commission that used a seven-step approach to work at reducing student dropout rates. (MD)

Describes a technique developed over the last 15 years in conjunction with South Carolina school districts to help them set priorities when addressing school building needs. Identifies five factors that are used to measure the overall impact of an individual facilities project in relation to other projects, thereby ranking projects according to an…

In Kansas City, Kansas, the school system wanted to do more than end two decades of court-ordered desegregation plans. The district created a comprehensive and integrated plan for educational improvement that can be used by any district. A three-pronged approach to school planning focuses on programs, demographics, and facilities. (MLF)

Analysis of problems faced by school systems with surplus schools due to declining enrollment has led to this list of suggestions on achieving flexibility in new building construction. (WD)