Superintendents say that managers of decline are unafraid to take risks, make cuts, or face up to conflicts; and that managers of growth identify needs, set objectives, remain flexible but maintain a strong sense of direction, and prevent unwise innovations. (Author/MLF)

A recent survey of some 3,000 administrators across the United States revealed a wide range of textbook selection procedures. (WD)

Offers advice to principals on initiating a writing program, including tips on planning, teacher training, costs, and assessment. One cardinal rule: the administrator must also write. (Author/WD)

Takeover artists are a rare breed. Persons hired to put bankrupt school systems back on the road to academic solvency need stamina, clout, and plenty of experience. For all their state-given powers, takeover superintendents must identify key constituencies, build bridges, and promote belief in change from within. (MLH)

Principals capable of turning a troubled school around share certain characteristics that make them successful. Vision and dedication are just two of these traits. (SI)

Examples of inservice programs and procedures at two hypothetical high schools reveal the principal's true role in promoting positive change through staff development. With school improvement at stake, the principal must concentrate on commitment, collaboration, communication, and coordination. (MLH)

Describes Cotati-Rohnert Park (California) Unified School District's establishment of formal alliances with three important groups: parents, college and university officials, and community and business leaders. Advises superintendents how to initiate joint efforts that can produce increased volunteer help, a political base of support, and a…

After describing the concept of comparable worth and reviewing arguments for and against the idea, the author proposes seven cautions for district administrators to heed when faced with the need to respond to the comparable worth issue and suggests a seven-step plan for taking action to improve pay equity. (PGD)

Borrowed from the world of business, "management by wandering around" at least one hour per week should help superintendents make better decisions as well as improve relations with staff. (KS)

Discusses statutory requirements of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act and offers advice to administrators faced with a due process hearing, including steps in hearing preparation, conduct, and follow-up. (WD)

Structure is the key to an effective crisis management plan. A crisis plan has to be simple, concise, and flexible. Presents 10 steps to create a crisis plan for school systems. (MLF)

A "recovering" former principal humorously discusses the collapse of society, the condition of today's children, and the pressures facing parents. Noting dramatic changes in principals' roles, he offers tips for eliciting parents' support. Principals should make parents feel welcome, use proper body language during conferences, and…

In "Thriving on Chaos," author Tom Peters suggests that future managers will need the quick reactions of video game players. Patient observation may work better. Chaos theory teaches that random happenings cannot be controlled; the toughest, randomly caused problems have no solutions; a leader's vision or moral code cannot be imposed on…

With scant resources but boundless commitment, Charles Johnson, superintendent in a rural Mississippi district, takes pride in stretching school funds. The district has never run a deficit or borrowed to make ends meet. (MLF)

Presents suggestions for superintendents and central office executives to provide support for principals. Principals can be helped in the following ways: hire the best principals; look within the system for principal candidates; provide training in instructional leadership; inform principals about legal matters; and visit principals often. (CJH)