This follow-up study presents findings from 11 structured interviews that were conducted with principals engaged in a conversion from a large comprehensive high school to six small schools. Key findings are (a) the greatest barrier to improvement was entrenched instructional patterns and (b) goals of college readiness and social/emotional…

Details for making worthwhile and effective changes in high schools are presented. (CK)

De-departmentalizing the high school into smaller integrated quads would make possible the necessary frequent review and revision of the curriculum and facilitate change with greater ease. Inflexibility could give way to creativity and provide a humanistic environment to meet the needs of adolescents. (Author)

Five basic components of the emerging educational system--forecasts and assessment, program planning, alternative environments, electronics and socialization, and differentiated faculty--summarize both current trends in educational practice and the implications for schools provided by analysts of the radically different society America is…

A study of five Vermont high schools suggests that change must grow from seeds already planted in different schools, fed by a constant flow of human energy interacting across all school organizational levels. Certain patterns, such as top-down or bottom-up change, are not as interactive as systemic efforts. (MLH)

To implement curriculum changes successfully, five guidelines should be followed: changes should be research-based; successful innovation requires organizational changes; innovations must be feasible for the average teacher; implementation efforts must be organic, not bureaucratic; and a definite curriculum plan is essential. Guidelines for…

If education is to be reformed to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century, a new decentralized model based on colleagueship must be developed. Principals must share their vision of the school's purpose with teachers and set aside the "creaking norms" of an earlier day. All school professionals must be empowered. (MLH)

Previews the findings of "A Study of High Schools," cosponsored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals and the Commission on Educational Issues. Offers overall impressions of field visits to high schools and suggests eight principles by which high schools should be restructured. (JW)

The educational changes that seem to offer the greatest long-term benefits are those that focus on modifying the behaviors of teachers, administrators, and students in the interest of good schools. (Author/MLF)

The experience of middle-school reformers during the past 30 years has shown that administrative/organizational changes are more easily achieved than changes in people. Using teaming, block scheduling, and other middle-level approaches to personalize high schools and make them more relevant may help today's adolescents regain feelings of purpose,…

Many talented beginning teachers leave the profession in the first 2 years. The author explores the reasons and presents a plan for principals to follow to help retain beginning teachers. (MD)