Argues that a school or district's ability to create effective learning conditions depends in large part on the extent to which policies exist to ensure that certain crucial principles are followed. Lists and discusses six policies to be considered by educators attempting to improve the quality of their programs. (FL)

Reports a study of the impact of a new restrictive and punitive (grade reduction) attendance policy on high school students' attendance, scholastic achievement, behavior, and extracurricular participation. Variables of student age, IQ, and sex were analyzed. The punitive attendance policy was considered effective for certain students. Guidelines…