Results of a survey of Texas school administrators asked to rank courses of instruction in order of importance. (Author/M LF)

Over 500 Texas secondary school principals emphatically say that their actual roles are not congruent with their ideal roles. The principals wish to become most involved in the instructional and curriculum leadership role. (Author/IRT)

Implementation of professional knowledge in school settings is process involving deep, substantive philosophical considerations. Philosophical leanings are central in shaping school's mission and overall program direction. Summarizes results of study examining Texas secondary school principals' philosophical leanings in areas of curricular…

Despite time restraints and lack of training, principals are responsible for mounting some kind of public relations effort in their schools. This article provides a checklist for building a successful campaign, including polling staff talents, reaching out to the community, obtaining district assistance, and making the right approach. (MLH)

In 1986 the Center for Policy Research in Education began a five-year study of state educational reform implementations and effects in six states (California, Arizona, Texas, Minnesota, Florida, and Georgia) chosen for their diverse approaches. Most efforts (not all successful) concentrated on increased academics, teacher professionalism, and…

The governor of Texas discusses the adoption of the Texas Educational Opportunity Act in 1984 and its effects on the state. Also discussed is the declining role of the federal government in funding of education and how the states have absorbed massive cuts in funding in critical areas of education. (MD)

The Administrator Portfolio Appraisal System implemented by the Judson (Texas) Independent School District addressed current systems' weaknesses by stressing self-assessment, collegial-evaluation processes, refocusing and planning, and informed practice. The program promoted unity and trust among all administrators, fostered open dialog, helped…

School administrators greeted the Texas legislature's 1984 mandate for professional growth plans with mixed reactions. The Management Profile, an instrument developed at the Texas A&M University Principals' Center, helps administrators assess their strengths and weaknesses and build growth plans addressing their own situations. This article…

Some differences in priorities and rankings emerged when principals, superintendents, and teachers ranked the importance of eight principal competencies and evaluated 18 principals on their performance. (JM)

Briefly outlines the National Research Council's 1979 study of minority student representation in special education classes. Outlines results from recent study analyzing the ethnic make-up of children labeled "learning disabled" in a large school district in Texas. Results indicate that a disproportionate number of minority students are…

Reviews recent court cases relating to student, school, and staff responsiblity regarding student activities. Includes discussions of regulations concerning student participation, limitations on participation based on conduct, charging fees, and liability in injury cases. (MD)

Describes a successful mentoring program for beginning teachers developed at a Baptist (K-12) school with 700 students and 11 new faculty members. Program mentors were experienced, but not lead teachers. The most frequently discussed problems between mentor and protege were discipline, classroom management, and the frustration of never having…

The supreme courts of Montana, New Jersey, and Texas have overturned their respective educational finance systems. Provides analyses of the three cases and a discussion of the implications for other states. (MLF)