Article describes one group of teachers and their efforts to work together during the first three semesters of the West Philadelphia Community Free School. (Authors)

Traditionally, local school districts have shouldered the burden of funding school infrastructure in the name of local control, relying upon local property tax revenues and the willingness of local voters to approve bond issues. Given vast disparities in school districts' property wealth, gross inequities in school facilities will remain without…

Results are presented from a mixed-method investigation into the effects of Block Schedule on student self-efficacy, attitude, and instructional practices within the context of mathematics. Students exposed to block schedule showed no change in attitude toward mathematics, whereas those on a traditional schedule demonstrated a significant…

The transformation of a high school to a learning community is a slow and challenging process. This study tracked the efforts of teacher and administrative leaders from six high schools who worked to develop professional learning communities. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of interviews with school leaders revealed that the early days of…

Proposes replacing a large high school with three smaller educational units, one distinctly conservative in goals, methods, and disciplinary procedures; one distinctly liberal; and a third neutral facility. (Author/MLF)

Outlines findings from a Wisconsin study to identify problems hindering the process of implementing mainstreaming programs in secondary schools. Includes eight recommendations and a reference list. (MD)

Discusses the environmental assessment techniques for secondary schools. (GB)

Sometimes a simple modification of the physical environment is all that is required to correct student misbehavior. Examples are provided. (Author/MLF)

Defines vandalism, explains several types of vandalism, and examines the monetary and social impact of vandalism. (JM)

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)

Educational improvement can only be achieved when a school's climate is positive and conducive to learning. The principal must take the lead in establishing an effective climate by being fair, consistent, capable, and--most importantly--highly visible. (PGD)

A Missouri inschool suspension program is described that attempts to improve the educational environment while allowing continuous instruction. (MD)

Outlines the School Climate Audit, a self-assessment system based on 12 factors that have been identified as determinants in successful schools. (MD)

Iroquois Middle School (Michigan) has a five-fold and ongoing positive reinforcement program of birthday cards, student of the month, personalized report cards, positive notes and phone calls, and student awards. (MLF)