Focuses on three urban secondary principals who were effective in turning schools in crisis into effective schools. Identifies the barriers the principals encountered and overcame in the process. Describes how these principals' authoritarian styles ceased to be effective when the schools were no longer in crisis. Points to a need for a new type of…

Principals in urban high schools can play an important role in improving school effectiveness by adopting an educational philosophy that focuses on development of the students' sense of self-worth. (PGD)

Given that America is still a dangerously racist, classist, and sexist society and that students need opportunities to celebrate their diverse cultural backgrounds, the failure of the nation's schools to educate African-American students must be reexamined. Change strategies include making the curriculum more multicultural and reorienting…

A visiting Fulbright scholar/principal from Capetown, South Africa, spent a semester observing elementary, middle, and high school classes in the eastern United States. His observations about student absenteeism, school counselors, discipline, inclusive programs, transportation modes, and library facilities evoke contrasting images of daily school…

Relying on his experience as an urban principal, the author relates several vignettes to illustrate the importance of a smoothly working school team of administrators, teachers, and counselors. (Author/JM)

The challenge for all urban administrators, with support from the community, is motivating urban students. Administrators must not try to treat everyone alike but must help teachers and counselors identify students' strengths and weaknesses, establish realistic goals and objectives, and guide students through adolescent development. Writers in…

Illuminates the contributions of private schools, both parochial and independent, to society through the provision of upward mobility for minorities and an understanding of basic values shared by all humankind. (WD)

A Chicago school worked to establish school security without destroying the atmosphere that fosters trust, creativity, and a sense of community. Short-range tactics are listed, and a long-range effort to develop student and community unity and pride in the school is discussed. (MJL)

Following a 35-year history of a Milwaukee high school's reform efforts, coauthor Nancy Connors, the new principal, unfolds her vision for this dynamic, predominantly black institution. She believes strongly in instructional improvement; participative management; facilitative leadership and teaching styles; and a caring, student-centered…