Reading disability and illiteracy are among the most pressing educational issues facing the United States today. At least 40 percent of America's fourth-graders are unable to read at grade level and a similar proportion of adults read at the lowest two levels of prose literacy. Here, the authors present an unflinching examination of the science…

Research has shown links between good libraries and good student performance. A good library is adequately staffed, stocked, and funded. Its staff is involved in the school's teaching and learning; provides access to materials; has collegial, collaborative relationships with teachers; and embraces information technology. A dynamic librarian and a…

In remote Bristol Bay (Alaska), award-winning librarian Tiki Levinson built a library program that inspired students to read and teachers to embrace new resources for their classrooms. She recommends new books and Web sites to students and teachers and searches avidly for new resources that might pique a child's interest or meet a teacher's needs.…

Brain researchers developed a three-tier model to treat reading problems, involving screening for early intervention, modifying regular instruction and monitoring student progress, and diagnosing and treating referred children. In a pilot of the model, 64 percent of 215 participating students needed no further intervention beyond tier 2. In…

There is a "gaping separation" in academic achievement between minority group children and White children. Research shows that minority group children can achieve when the following issues are addressed: high expectations geared to clear standards, timely intervention for struggling students, excellent teachers with good ethnic…

In response to Salish and Kootenai tribal demands for educational equity, a Montana school district chose a reform model based on cooperative learning strategies, which fits American Indian learning styles, and switched from tolerating to celebrating American Indian culture. Academic achievement has risen in all subjects, and the achievement gap…

Presents a buyer's guide to liquid crystal display (LCD) projectors, compares LCD projectors to LCD panels, and reports on some advantages of using LCD projectors for color presentations. Advantages include bulb longevity, support of multimedia, and remote control capability. A sidebar includes LCD projector company contact information, product…

Access to technology in school can motivate students to become more independent learners, but will have little effect if teachers are technologically illiterate. To be effective, technology must be integrated into the curriculum, and teachers need support and training in the use of technology and related new pedagogical methods. They also need…

Two White Pass School District (Washington) programs increase community cohesiveness despite troubled economic times: (1) the school district offers adult education, utilizes community talent, and hosts community recreation events; and (2) the Forest Service, school district, and community college developed a summer job program for secondary…

Describes the teaching experiences and philosophy of 1995 National Teacher of the Year Elaine Griffin. With her husband Ned, Griffin began her teaching career in the roadless village of Akhiok (Alaska) and now teaches in a three-room school in Chiniak, Kodiak Island. Classroom activities such as Socratic discussion are described that nurture…

Discusses the chilling effect on learning of bullying and peer harassment, resources and strategies for creating a more respectful school climate, and the need for comprehensive schoolwide policies and procedures that also involve community. Sidebars describe the newly established National Safe Schools Resource Center and various educator guides…

A nationally acclaimed antiviolence program, Second Step teaches three basic skills needed for living peacefully in society: empathy, impulse control, and anger management. In Bethel (Alaska), where student gunfire killed a student and principal in 1997, Second Step is used enthusiastically, having been modified to fit Yupik Eskimo culture and…

A grade 6-12 Vancouver, Washington, magnet school blends arts education with interdisciplinary academics. To get in, students don't need talent or good grades, but a serious desire to study the arts. Academics are taught in the morning; afternoon arts classes are on three levels. Students are required to explore all the arts. Contains three…

Recent school improvement trends, notably the emphasis on accountability and academic standards, are changing the school principal's role. Developing a school vision for teaching and learning is becoming the top priority for principals. Leadership skills that help accomplish this include collaboration, participative decision making, and listening.…

Training programs for principals are generally viewed to be inadequate. Various initiatives in Seattle (Washington) demonstrate that effective programs bridge the gap between theory and practice, use new kinds of delivery systems, incorporate field-based experience, and provide internships. The University of Washington's 4-day workshops give state…