Discusses the ways early research on student dropout rate has been misinterpreted in relation to the dropout rate of gifted students. The rate of 18 percent continues to be cited but is incorrect. (MD)

Eleven whimsical approaches to self-introduction for new principals are presented. (TE)

In this interview, teaching models are rejected for their formulaic, inflexible approach to inculcating cognitive skills. Instead, teachers need to understand the logic of their subject matter and should master a set of pedagogical skills to use as necessary. Includes one reference. (MLH)

Stephen Tchudi, the author of the critique of Hirsch's article on cultural literacy, responds to Hirsch's reponse to his critique and asks: Who gets to define traditional content? (MD)

Combating the teenage substance abuse problem will require total school and community effort. This article presents guidelines for school action, including recognizing alcohol's dominant role in our society, dealing with mixed messages to youngsters, debunking myths about adolescent alcohol use, using available resources in new ways, and creating…

Presents four rules for successful parent involvement programs, based on the Home and School Institute's 20 years' experience in promoting parent involvement in education. (MCG)

Criticizes the "great tradition" article (EA 519 521, this issue), asserting that traditional methods of moral instruction failed because they indoctrinated conduct and did not teach individuals moral understanding. Suggests that indoctrination is incompatible with education. (MD)

Critiques the terminological, historical, prescriptive, and descriptive difficulties in the "great tradition" article (EA 519 521, this issue). It is important that schools teach the application of critical thinking to moral problems. (MD)

Criticizes the "great tradition" article (EA 519 521, this issue), pointing out that the cause-and-effect relationship between values clarification and the increase in juvenile problems is tenuous.(MD)

Describes a curriculum review program using citizens and educators developed by the Jefferson County Schools in Colorado. Includes an outline of the program. (MD)

Introductory article in a new column that will provide a vehicle for educators to share experiences and ideas on how computers or other forms of technology affect themselves and their schools. (MLF)

Provides guidelines for evaluation in textbook selection. (MD)

Using short-term pilot programs to evaluate textbooks can lead to unreliable results and interfere with effective education. Alternative methods for evaluating textbook-based programs include obtaining documented analyses of competitors' products from sales agents, visiting districts using programs being considered, and examining publishers' own…