Examines what can and should be done to clarify and/or resolve scientific conflicts with policy implications. Includes a typology for classifying controversies, mechanisms, and objectives with regard to scientific disputes with policy implications. This apparatus aims to show the differences in disputes and in approaches to deal with them. (JN)

Constructive strategies to pursue in cases of opposition to an established school board policy include the following: (1) persuade colleagues to consult with the board attorney; (2) share sources of information; (3) confine comments to the issues; (4) ask tough questions; and (5) work to get better board members. (MLF)

Discusses conceptual models of thought that have recently emerged to confront the conventional approaches to analysis and solution to complex environmental problems. In addition to a critical attack on the tradition of specialization and reductionism, several models are summarized that originated from ecology, cybernetics, and system theory. (BC)

The evaluation of employee assistance program (EAP) providers was designed to provide information necessary to the selection of an EAP provider for the Saint Louis Public Schools, Missouri. The most widely recognized functions of an EAP are to provide a confidential consultation to individuals with personal problems and to serve as a management…

This document is intended to assist states in implementing the mediation requirements in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), as amended in 1997. These provisions include parent participation in collaborative decision-making and the right of parents to challenge decisions about their child's education program. Increased use of…

Local governance of education is based on recognizing and protecting the rights of minorities while attempting to meet the needs of all. Legally, various courts across the country have upheld the rights of school officials to make choices regarding curriculum textbooks, library books, and general subject matter. Board policy should include the…

This handbook is intended to assist policy boards and Interagency Coordinating Councils in developing and writing clear guidelines for implementing Part H of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act which mandates early intervention services to infants and toddlers with disabilities. Principles are rooted in a "family systems"…

This handbook for school board presidents and members offers information on policy, procedures, law, leadership, and communication relevant to board meetings; each chapter features page margins for notes and a "backup materials" section for practical use. Chapter 1, "The Role of the Board President," focuses on balance of power, presidential…

This textbook is designed for use: (1) as a text in college classes in curriculum and instruction, educational administration, public policy, school counseling, school psychology, and the social psychology of education; and (2) as a resource for inservice training of school administrators, staff personnel, and teachers. The book focuses on…

Students need opportunities for developing a strong self-image and for learning how to cope with life's problems safely and effectively. Programs should be provided that offer young people the opportunity to develop (1) a strong and secure sense of self-worth; (2) more effective communication skills; (3) the ability to cope with disappointment,…

This handbook was written to help school boards conduct routine business meetings more efficiently, and thereby improve their ability to reach constructive decisions and solve problems. After a brief introduction, the first chapter focuses on organizing the new school board, electing officers, adopting policies, and appointing committees. The…

This publication, a resource for board of education presidents in the State of New Jersey, covers a wide range of topics pertaining to the board president's duties. Separate sections are devoted to the following: (1) the code of ethics for New Jersey board members; (2) statutory responsibilities of a board of education president; (3) an opinion…

This book provides basic information for new board of education members on a wide range of issues that have turned up on board of education agendas in New Jersey over the past 10 years. Separate sections are devoted to the following: (1) the New Jersey School Boards Association's code of ethics for board members; (2) the governance of New Jersey…