Discusses opposing views on minimum academic standards for student athletes. Can schools require of athletes what is not required of other students? Unintended outcomes such as student athletes taking easier course loads may result. Conversely, minimum standards should not penalize those wanting to participate in sports. Schools with minimum…

Reviews the implications (for high school principals) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association's (NCAA) adoption of Rule 48 establishing eligibility criteria for freshmen students receiving athletic grants-in-aid from Division I colleges and universities. Failure of a student to be admitted due to a high school's ignorance of the rule's…

The new higher standards required of entering collegiate athletes will not immediately create change in the performance and attitudes of student athletes. Academic performance of student athletes can be enhanced through the development of a comprehensive program fusing the relationship between athletics and academics. (MD)

Presents results from a Colorado study of the academic performance of high school student athletes. Results from the study suggest that student athletes' grades do not suffer as a result of participation in sports. The grade point averages of the student athletes in this study were higher than those of nonparticipating students. (MD)

A Virginia high school developed an athletic study hall program as an alternative to establishing a minimum grade point average for athletes. The program has had some success in enhancing the academic progress of the athletes. (MD)

Argues for making participation in high school athletics available to all students, not just the academic achievers. (MD)

Outlines high school coaches' multifaceted roles and duties. Emphasizes students' special needs. (MD)

Nancy Reagan discusses the problems of drug abuse by youth. The 1985 findings of the National Institute on Drug Abuse show a decline in marijuana and alcohol use by high school seniors. Mrs. Reagan emphasizes the importance of family support and the parent group movement as well as positive peer group support in the fight against youth drug abuse.…

Outlines the steps a "lighthouse" principal took in turning an ineffective school characterized by low morale, poor achievement, and high absentee rates into an effective school with high morale and improved student achievement during a six-month period. (MD)

Outlines how to develop and write an effective curriculum governance document to be used in creating and monitoring curriculum development. Includes specific steps to consider in developing the document. (MD)

Effective teacher evaluation is important and influences the professional growth of experienced teachers. Recent studies reveal the need for teacher evaluation systems that enhance teacher professional growth and develop a sense of collegiality between teachers and administrators. (MD)

After a 1986 study of American secondary schools, a British headmistress compares the schools she studied with their equivalents in the British education system. She points out that American principals are leaders and innovators. (MD)

Outlines important considerations for establishing suicide prevention programs in high schools. Teenage suicide rate has doubled since 1970. To deal with this crisis schools must develop procedures for detecting potential victims and for helping students and staff cope after a suicide. Schools must not be afraid to talk about suicide; avoiding the…

Discusses the need to evaluate and revise student attendance procedures. Includes a list of symptoms to look for to identify problem attendance areas. (MD)

Offers 50 basic steps to help administrators and teachers improve student attendance. (MD)