Many school districts are acknowledging staff development's dismal record. Inservice programs traditionally operate on a deficit training model, promote awareness without classroom strategies, and are offered by traveling "experts." Teachers need time and opportunity to direct their own professional development program and "mess…

Teachers using the whole-language approach to reading instruction (instead of phonics readers and worksheets) claim this practice is child centered, allows student reading choices, develops the whole child, makes learning relevant, and promotes a lifelong love of learning. Whole-language teachers should adopt a transactional pedagogy and link…

Research shows that self-esteem is a rather fixed and stable psychological state formed by age four or five, not too amenable to change. Schools can positively affect self-esteem by fostering an environment in which individuals are always respected and valued. Boards should help districts implement the ideas and suggestions found in accompanying…

Many researchers say the best gifted programs are based on the theory of multiple intelligences and other research in the field of cognitive psychology. Programs can be part of a school's mission to develop every child's gifts and talents. Outlines models and frameworks for instruction. Sidebars list recommendations along with references and…

Research shows that many students lack civic engagement, civic literacy, and the disposition toward becoming responsible citizens. Teachers must convey the meaning of citizenship and its context, rights, and responsibilities. Project Citizen, Outward Bound, and service learning programs can help students learn democratic participation behaviors.…

Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences posits that individuals are somewhat intelligent in linguistic, musical, logical-mathematical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal areas. Standardized tests measure only language and math skills. Multiple-intelligence-based pilot projects include Indianapolis's Flow Room,…

Although schools are increasingly adopting site-based management (SBM), little uniformity exists among districts. SBM is suffering from growing pains and "shop-floor realities." Principals and teachers are managing schools through trial-and-error. Many principals are paranoid about their changing roles, and teachers are struggling with budgeting…

Research indicates that token rewards of students have negative consequences. Using this as an example, school board members who are asked to support proposals for new programs should refuse to consider programs not grounded in substantive research and to expect staff members to develop a program-planning process that includes indepth research…