The author urges, among other consideration, that strikes be avoided when possible, that major decisions be made before the strike begins, that the district cultivate good relations with the media, and that unity among the board members be maintained. (IRT)

A superintendent describes the actions his district took when its community suffered a natural disaster and offers suggestions districts should take to be prepared to assist their communities under similar circumstances. (IRT)

Offers a checklist of 30 points to use in planning effective school board meetings. (WD)

Relates the experience of the Bettendorf (Iowa) school system in seeking widespread community involvement in planning for drastic budget cuts. The participants' ranking of school programs is included. (WD)

The best way to purchase food-service equipment for a new or renovated school is to assemble a team, assess the school's needs, see what is available, follow state and federal procurement guidelines, install the equipment, and train employees to use it safely. A sidebar outlines procurement tips. (MLH)

E-commerce is coming slowly to education, but some curious school purchasing officials are clicking on vendors' web sites. Pioneering districts include the Chicago, Detroit, and El Dorado (California) public schools. Vendors include Boise Cascade and Office Depot. Some vendors are joining institutional exchanges like Commerce One or marketing…

Lists crucial procedures devised by a superintendent to produce board meetings that are both open and thoroughly organized. (Author/JM)

In negotiating a superintendent's contract, caution and expert legal counsel are as important for the school board as for the superintendent. Offering a well-rounded package providing both annuities and insurance policies can help boards attract the best superintendent candidates. The most serious negotiation issue for superintendents involves…

After tornado leveled Grand Prairie Elementary School (Joliet, Illinois), concerted effort by architects and the school community paid off when new school was opened two years later. Hallways in new building are staggered throughout school to avoid the creation of wind tunnels in event of another tornado. Guidelines for disaster preparations…

Offers guidelines on planning for and conducting smooth, efficient, and effective board meetings. (WD)

Examines the objectives and functions of school maintenance and presents an organizational chart for a school district maintenance department. Asserts that programed maintenance'' and the utilization of data processing techniques are not to be regarded as luxury budget items. (WM)

Children who experience disasters such as Hurricane Andrew in southern Florida, are prone to severe and debilitating stress. Districts can prepare by designating a disaster management commander, a search-and-rescue team, and a reuniting team. Planning should include drills, recovery, and restoration elements. (Contains 10 references.) (MLH)