Researchers suggest that teachers should place greater emphasis on the qualitative understanding of the procedures involved in mathematical problem-solving. Administrators can advise teachers to encourage students and show them how to be more thorough in analyzing problems. (MLF)

Describes the implementation of a management team approach to educational administration in small school districts. Identifies the basic concepts and activities that underlie implementation, outlines steps for solving problems, and reviews the stages of growth through which administrative teams develop. (PGD)

Eighteen suggestions for reducing or even preventing grievance arbitration costs are detailed under negotiating the contract, administering the contract, and preparing for arbitration categories. (KS)

School superintendents asked to relate the most difficult personnel problems of their careers and how they dealt with those crises agreed that sensational cases are easier to handle than those requiring delicacy and patience. Anecdotes illustrate the superintendents' problems and their solutions. (MLF)

Union and school board representatives studied basic negotiating techniques at a five-day workshop. Improved relations and cooperation were the result. (MLF)

Suggests combining the Delphi technique and the nominal group process technique to improve the collective decision-making of school curriculum and other committees. Both methods require group members to respond in writing. A five-step agenda with sample questions illustrates the approach. (MLF)

A training program used successfully in more that 40 school systems consists of an intensive 5-day workshop involving lectures, role-playing exercises, simulated negotiations, and indepth discussions about bargaining issues. (MLF)

By acting as a facilitator and working for a consensual solution, a superintendent can begin developing widespread support toward a reasonable solution. Offers guidelines that include respecting board members' expertise and using board committees. (MLF)

Offers superintendents guidelines for resolving personnel disputes, policy disagreements, and communication problems with school boards so that schools run smoothly. (KS)

Research findings indicate that grade retention leads to problems in student self-esteem and raises the dropout level. A transition grade between kindergarten and first grade is also considered harmful to students. Cites changes in different states' retention policies. (MLF)

The key to an employee-supported evaluation system is involving a significant majority of those affected in the planning process. This article describes the development of a new evaluation system for 200 administrators and supervisiors based on attitude surveys and a large administrator-dominated steering committee. (MLH)

In response to our technological society, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics recommends decreasing drill and reliance on multiple-choice tests and increasing problem solving and real-world applications. Other recommendations include simulation software to provide mathematical challenges, collaborative learning, and alternative…

Surveys confirm the prevalence of racism and prejudice in schools and colleges. School executives are offered the following strategy: (1) establish that prejudice will not be tolerated; (2) get students involved; (3) expand contacts between racial groups; (4) offer students training in conflict resolution; and (5) provide staff inservice training.…