Principals in urban high schools can play an important role in improving school effectiveness by adopting an educational philosophy that focuses on development of the students' sense of self-worth. (PGD)

In the 21st century, students' character, social-emotional skills, and academic competencies will define school excellence. This article describes characteristics of visionary leadership for such schools based on settings already characterized by strengths in "EQ + IQ = Best Leadership Practices for Caring and Successful Schools." Core beliefs…

A study is described that scientifically validates the common assumption that travel and exchange programs abroad are educationally beneficial. A questionnaire was used to ascertain which areas of students' lives had benefitted from overseas experience. (TE)

Today is an opportune time for school administrators to exercise leadership in curriculum development for school achievement. Effective schools research has found a school's culture and its strategies and tactics to be foundational to an excellent school. These are explored in this article. (DCS)

The recommendations set forth in "Developing Character: Transmitting Knowledge," a recent statement signed by prominent scholars and educators, are reviewed here for principals. The statement focuses on the importance of education for character development. (Author)

If schools are to teach fundamental skills and attitudes to all students for success in a fast-changing world, schools will have to concentrate on teaching the basics and leave vocational courses to the post-high school institutions. (DCS)