To improve the focus of English Learner (EL), professional development for in-service teachers who may have experienced gaps in prior preparation for serving ELs, this two-part study begins with detailed survey-based data collection and analysis of teachers' perceived preparedness to serve ELs. The data highlights specific priorities for…

In response to legislative mandates that schools use evidence-based instructional practices, the National Secondary Transition Technical Assistance Center has identified evidence-based practices and predictors in the area of secondary transition for high school students with disabilities. This article provides an overview of practices and…

This article discusses a qualitative case study examining one middle school's response to intervention (RtI) efforts. Study participants included the principal, assistant principal, and members of the school's leadership team. A description of the RtI consensus and infrastructure-building processes, consideration of the RtI facilitators, and a…

The roles and responsibilities of principals are increasingly focused on instructional leadership. In many states, changes in the preparation and credentialing of future principals have been based on recognized leadership standards. Requirements for practicing principals to complete professional development aligned with such standards have also…

While curriculum specialists and committees often decide how mathematics is taught, it is ultimately principals who influence the extent to which these initiatives are carried out. The overall goal of this article is to provide school leaders with classroom-based research that describes one way of improving the math skills of middle school…

According to a recent Washington State survey, middle school educators need more than general training in teaching and administration to meet young adolescent students' needs. Respondents desired more knowledge about young adolescents' emotional, social, and intellectual development, and appropriate teaching and discipline techniques. Includes…

If the instructional process is to be more effective, schools and districts should establish a computerized curriculum database that can easily be accessed by educators in schools throughout the district. Such a program would allow teachers to facilitate curriculum management and plan instruction without using traditional curriculum guides.…

The principal must analyze curriculum content and instructional methods and correlate these with instructional objectives and outcomes. (JM)

This article examines and compares teachers in a national sample of middle level schools to those in a selected group of highly successful middle level schools. The context within which they work, their preparation, their level of implementation of middle level best practices, and their involvement as teacher leaders are discussed. Results show…

Describes development of a Multiple Intelligences Theory Application (MITA) model used in high school classrooms to address major content, collaboration, and criteria concerns. The model invites parents to collaborate, from curriculum planning stages to the end stages of learning. The model also provides for student participation and alternative…

Principals set the tone and create visions for innovation and change. Mounting research about the brain tempered with cautions of over interpretations can aid the principals to provide leadership in implementing more brain compatible schools. Practical strategies encompass the emotional environment of the school, policies, and procedures that…

For educational reform to succeed, the nature of teachers' jobs must be reconceptualized. A balance must be restored between art and technique in teaching. Includes references. (MD)

Because geography begins right outside the school door, teachers can structure learning activities that link classroom learning to events in the local community and the world. These activities can be organized in a program leading students from description (reading the landscape) through explanation to prediction. (MLH)

Many teachers do not realize the ease with which vocabulary development can be integrated into courses of study. Techniques for accomplishing this are offered. (Author/MLF)

A teaching style classification system that can aid in the evaluation of teachers is outlined. It allows the evaluator the use of systematic and orderly evaluation practices. (MD)