This article describes the origins of and the planning involved in a successful school-based staff development program called "Teacher Sharing." The program is simple, informal, and based entirely on teacher input. (IAH)

Describes portfolio assessment, recommending it as a means of dynamic and ongoing student evaluation. For students, portfolios stimulate thinking and promote independence. For teachers, they provide a multidimensional view of each child's development. The article explains how to get started, customize portfolio contents, collect notes, and manage…

Presents ideas for creating classroom libraries, noting how to set up a library (create a space, build and organize the collection, and set rules), where to find books at bargain prices (e.g., garage sales, libraries, book clubs, and grants), basic books to include, and information on authors and illustrators. (SM)

This paper answers several frequently asked questions about constructivism, including how to define it, how to plan the curriculum, how to assess student understanding, what to do with the information, where to begin, how students work in a constructivist classroom, and why constructivism is important. (SM)

Dealing with parents, colleagues, and administrators may be easier for teachers who use communications techniques gleaned from the corporate world. Topics include choosing appropriate language, maintaining harmony while making progress, and establishing a professional image. Four teachers briefly discuss benefits of training, through IMPACT II…

Suggestions are offered for teachers in moving schools toward collaboration: reflect on values and teaching; become risk takers; learn to trust processes and people; appreciate colleagues; commit to ongoing improvement; seek variety; redefine roles; balance work and life; include administrators; and acknowledge benefits of collaboration to…

Describes how to create teacher professional development networks that are run by teachers and for teachers with a common goal. The paper explains what teacher networks are and are not, and it provides information about national networks, on-site networks, and online networks. (SM)

Because technology is changing rapidly, teachers must keep up with new developments. This article recommends that teachers be proactive, creating their own staff development options and asking questions in order to get started. Suggestions for resources and options are provided, including attending conferences, using video training, and bringing…

Discusses how to initiate good professional development options and how to evaluate existing professional development programs for appropriateness. Options noted are teacher networks, National Board certification, university collaborations, Professional Development Schools, and local staff development efforts. Some resource information is…

This article discusses ways a school in Saint Louis (Missouri) applies the theory of multiple intelligences in the curriculum. The article identifies seven potential pitfalls and describes how this school works around them. A brief summary of the seven intelligences is included. (SM)

Examines six issues that can make or break an inclusion program (commitment, flexible scheduling, working as a team, making modifications, classroom setup, and believing in the students). Information is provided on statistics on inclusion by state, percentages of students with various disabilities in regular classrooms, and resources and…

A pull-out folder presents the latest information and resources about teaching reading. After offering statistics about reading and reading instruction, the folder examines National Council of Teachers of English and English/International Reading Association standards, explains how to nurture a love of reading in students, and offers resources for…