School improvement strategies are presented in four scenarios: (1) high outcomes from enforced, stabilized use; (2) moderate to high outcomes from high mastery and low settledness; (3) moderate to low outcomes from program blunting or downsizing; and (4) failing, low levels of outcome from indifference and discouragement. (MD)

Four ingredients critical for successful classroom innovations are described: (1) a well defined "classroom friendly" effective innovation, (2) continuous teacher support, (3) clear direction from administrators, and (4) attention to institutionalization. (MD)

This article reviews and analyzes the findings of a national study on school improvement. It defines four relationships important to effective implementation and the implications for school change. (MD)

The author reviews trends in the curriculum field, pointing out how it suffers from "ahistoricism." Schools must be responsible for countering cycles and fashions. Curriculum reform efforts should be an attempt to solve problems based on knowledge from previous experience. (MD)

The advantages of "script taking" for use as a supervisory skill are presented. It is an easy and efficient alternative to expensive electronic taping in observing teacher performance. (MD)

Three features are the foundation of instruction in thinking skills: (1) the learning environment, (2) the instructional strategies and methods used, and (3) the coordination and structure of skill teaching throughout the entire curriculum. (MD)

A recent study in Baltimore shows that the inclusion of a structured cognitive skills program in the language arts curriculum significantly improved student verbal performance on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). (MD)

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. School officials need to recognize it, understand their liability, and take steps to protect themselves and their employees. (MD)

Richmond schools created two projects to publicize and promote art education. One was a billboard display of original student art throughout the city (Art in the Open), the other a display of student art on city buses (Art Bus). The project successfully generated excitement about art education. (MD)

The history and teachings of the Chinese philsospher Confucius are reviewed and related to modern American education. (MD)

The overall effectiveness of a school program can be assessed through a matrix sampling technique. In Illinois a district gathers evaluative data in 10 content areas by administering tests to sample groups of students. (MD)

Reviewing staff development research, this article focuses on delivery systems and how they affect teacher change and improvement as well as the process of teacher change. Recommendations are made for staff development. (MD)

This review of recent literature on education and educational reform in America offers critiques of six influential studies ("A Nation at Risk,""Action for Excellence,""Educating Americans for the 21st Century,""The Paideia Proposal," The Carnegie Foundation's "High School," and "A Place Called School") and suggests correctives for each. (JBM)

"A Nation at Risk" emphasizes the importance of quality education to the nation's well-being, insisting that, although our current educational system is mediocre, we can do better. The book makes recommendations in such areas as curriculum and time management, standards and expectations, teacher status, excellence and equity, and elementary…

In response to a wide range of questions on "A Nation at Risk," the executive director of the National Commission on Excellence in Education defends its fundamental conclusions and discusses its impact and implications. (JBM)