A Specialist Degree in Teaching is the result of a four-year development effort at the University of South Carolina designed to meet the complex needs of a career teacher. The goals and curriculum of the program are described as well as strategies for program evaluation. (MT)

Presents lists of questions that parents, teachers, and administrators can use to assess their own readiness for a parent involvement program. Outlines a process for successful program development. (SJL)

An Early Childhood Education Institute was developed by the University of South Carolina and the South Carolina State Department of Education to provide meaningful development opportunities for teachers of young children. Strategies of the planning process and instruction design are discussed. (DF)

This paper suggests ways that educators can learn about family needs, assess readiness for family-school cooperation, explore community resources, and activate an effective family-school relationship. Examples of family-school-community programs are provided. (SJL)

Discusses how groups that include early childhood educators can create dynamic support services to combat homelessness. Covers causes of homelessness and the needs of homeless families and their young children, and presents several strategies to develop effective services for them. Emphasizes parental involvement, school and community…

Emphasizes the critical role of parental input into design and implementation of family involvement programs. Discusses what parents consider meaningful family involvement, which can constitute the foundation for program development. Suggests ways to maintain a parent focus in program decisions. (BAC)