Student activity programs should be an integral part of education. Movements to limit student participation in activities by academic eligibility requirements do not take into account research that shows that the most consistent predictor of a person's life success is achievement in cocurricular activities.(MD)

Reviews recent court cases relating to student, school, and staff responsiblity regarding student activities. Includes discussions of regulations concerning student participation, limitations on participation based on conduct, charging fees, and liability in injury cases. (MD)

Explores the relationship between good grades and success in nonacademic life. Research shows there is a positive correlation between student involvement in cocurricular activities and success following high school and college. (MD)

Provides a model for developing a course in student leadership at the secondary level. Includes a sample outline for a Basic Leadership Course and a sample outline for an Advanced Leadership Course. (MD)

Student activities were overlooked in the recent national reports on education indicating the possibility that they are not considered significant. Provides a seven-step agenda for ensuring that such programs retain their position in the schools. (MD)

To counter negative news about education it is important to make sure that positive school activities receive their fair share of exposure in the news media. Presents tips on how to generate positive public relations. Includes a list of newsworthy activities ideas. (MD)

Outlines the benefits of community service programs in the schools. Provides a seven-step plan for developing such programs.(MD)

High schools seek to maximize student holding power providing something for everybody. This shopping mall concept produces schools in which variety, choice, and neutrality are counterproductive for some individuals. To counteract this effect schools need to take risks through greater commitment to individual student development and to higher…

Presents findings from a national survey measuring the public's response to academic reform in secondary schools. Results show the public supports improvement of academic standards but also wants the existing structure and organization of schools to be maintained. Includes four tables. (MD)

The characteristics of effective school philosophies are outlined. The author discusses the differences between political philosophies and school philosophies and points out the difficulties involved in developing "good" school philosophies that are specific. (MD)

The author outlines the qualities of excellent teachers and points out that excellence itself is rare in many occupations. He also describes the difficulties teacher's face including the low status they hold in our society. He presents nine steps to follow to achieve excellence in education. (MD)

A survey of 479 graduating seniors from three different high schools reveals the majority of the students were not adequately trained in study skills. Includes a copy of the survey questionnaire. (MD)

To combat the problem of entering college freshmen who are not prepared for college level mathematics, the University of Minnesota (Morris) developed a unique program that uses a speakers bureau of college professors who go to the high school and discuss the importance of a solid foundation in mathematics with students. (MD)

Multi-level foreign language classes are difficult to evaluate because of their complexity. Presents guidelines for administrators to follow when evaluating such classrooms. (MD)

Many school districts have adopted minimum competency tests as part of the requirements for high school diplomas. It is important that the needs of special education students are included when planning and implementing competency testing. Included are three levels of options to consider for modified testing of special students. (MD)