A federal district court judge in Iowa ruled that an education service agency unreasonably denied equal employment opportunity to a handicapped applicant for a teaching position. The agency based its decision on the candidate's inability to meet physical requirements for job functions that the court held nonessential. (PGD)

Outlines the legal implications of comparable worth and recent court cases involving equal pay isues. Points out that where jobs are comparable and wages disparate without justification, courts have found employers guilty of wage discrimination. (MD)

The Supreme Court's ruling in "Betts" gives employers wide latitude in structuring benefit plans and should strengthen the confidence of school boards that wish to offer age-based retirement incentives. (MLF)

Cites cases of ethical violations, such as patronage and nepotism in hiring practices, in some school districts. Advises school board members to review their personal and professional ethics and to consider measures that will help guide decisions when ethical dilemmas arise. Formal ethics training is recommended for all educators. (MLF)

The number of sex discrimination complaints within school districts has risen in the last few years. Recent court rulings are cited, including estimated costs to the board. Outlines steps that a board can take to reduce the chances of sex discrimination occurring in a school district. (MLF)