Student discipline is still a serious problem. The student handbook is one method to disseminate information about expectations for student behavior. This article, based on a nationwide survey of secondary schools, summarizes student handbook contents regarding five areas: student conduct, attendance, guidance service, library, and bell schedule.…

Research indicates that school organization factors may be as important in explaining and managing school discipline as classroom techniques. The key to developing an environment conducive to good student deportment is a total school effort facilitated by a highly visible principal. Includes 11 references. (MLH)

Describes a school discipline model with five stages (problem identification, data collection, administrator-student conference, student response, and follow-up reports) that addresses due process while efficiently resolving disciplinary problems, providing immediate feedback to students and teachers, minimizing classroom disruption, and promoting…

Describes a Saturday School model designed to modify student behavior by subjecting students to experiences that will build a positive self-concept. Students assume full responsiblility for their behavior and receive counseling and a contact or support person to assist them in building positive behavior patterns. (MLH)

By enabling students to mediate their own disputes, educators may be synthesizing the finest potential in the school--the creative, constructive dynamic inherent in conflict. This article describes a mediated dispute resolution program used in several schools and offers implementation advice. (MLH)

Wise and ethical administrators can obtain the truth about student behavior incidents using the proper techniques. Following the law, honoring due process, maintaining a high degree of fairness, and using proper investigatory techniques (extensive questioning, involving the nurse in health related matters, maintaining security, protecting student…

Achievement motivation training addresses the needs of unmotivated, "turned-off" students by employing sequential self-improvement steps and other strategies such as videotape clips, games, simulations, music, role playing, modeling, career education, and small-group exercises. Includes eight references. (MLH)

Describes a comprehensive behavior management system that provides a professional base for school programs and long-term teaching efforts to produce responsible citizens. Schools can help change society's discipline-punishment philosophy by establishing appropriate administrative structure and training goals stressing openness, honesty, sincerity,…

Although schools can do little to help youth from desperately poor, violent, or drug-addicted families, they can educate other at-risk youngsters who are discouraged or defeated learners. Schools can raise these kids' self-esteem by bestowing serious work assignments, (not "warm fuzzies"), solitary learning space, or external rewards for everyday…

Due process hearings should not threaten principals who have performed their teacher evaluation duties well and can demonstrate (1) the persistent nature of the teacher's difficulties; (2) repeated warnings; (3) frequent assistance; (4) adequate time and opportunity to improve; (5) close supervision; and (6) the teacher's involvement in a normal…

Considering the public's high regard for discipline and the clear relationship between a safe and orderly environment and school effectiveness, no school can afford to operate without a properly developed discipline code handbook. Faculty, staff, and students need to be involved to make the handbook an effective blueprint governing behavior…

Explores basic leadership concepts, demolishes three leadership myths, and advises principals concerning ways to vary their management styles using either directive or interactive behavior. Choice of style depends on the situation and a particular subordinate's degree of readiness or compliance. (MLH)

Summarizes the Carnegie Foundation president's September 1987 speech concerning this generations's most urgent task--rebuilding the nation's schools. Warns that today's teachers may have gained in competency and responsibility, but not in empowerment to shape curricula, plan inservice programs, or shape student retention and special education…

Two recent visitors to the People's Republic of China report on dramatic changes in that nation's educational system. Besides experiencing some student problems similar to those in the U.S. (such as disobedience, early maturity, and reluctance to attend school), China faces the major problems confronting any Third World nation emerging in a…

Raising professional standards and improving teacher preparation programs will have little effect unless teaching becomes a more attractive career. Local administrators should involve faculty members effectively and satisfactorily in the decision-making and management process so that teachers don't need to enlist collective bargaining to force…