Here is what our work uniquely brings to policy and planning tables: (1) An expanded framework for school improvement--We highlight that moving from a two- to a three-component policy and practice framework is essential for closing the opportunity and achievement gaps. (That is, expanding from focusing primarily on instruction and…

Many institutions have difficulties in resolving complaints and grievances and other types of dispute speedily and economically. Lapses still occur in following procedures; disputes frequently grow more complicated than they were at the start; they drag on; they waste the time of administrators and those involved, even ending sometimes in an…

This article summarizes how the components of the Schoolwide Enrichment Model were used to dramatically reduce the achievement gap in a school with a high at-risk student population. The theories of enrichment and instructional differentiation replaced an existing remedial paradigm and a strength-based methodology was embraced by the school…

What is Response to Intervention (RTI) and how can it benefit your school? Find out in "RTI Success", an all-in-one resource that provides information on this innovative model as well as step-by-step administrator guidelines and practical teacher tools for implementation. Despite ongoing federal initiatives meant to increase the profile…

This article explains a two-part plan, created by the people at the Public Library of Charlotte & Mecklenburg County (PLCMC), to help staff members keep up with the sea change of technology. A core competencies training program was developed. This keeps workers afloat by providing them with the technology skills they need to support the change…

To ensure compliance with IEP requirements, staff development activities should be directed toward the evaluation and documentation of individual programs. This process includes preparation of detailed summaries of students participating in IEPs, documentation of participation in the IEP, as well as in the regular classroom, goals and objectives,…

Describes four approaches to competency-based staff development piloted in Texas during 1978 and 1979. These approaches to staff development are identified as (1) the pre-post workshop model, (2) the pre-inter-post workshop model, (3) the opportunities course model, and (4) the diversified training model. (CT)

Describes the 4Mat System, an instructional plan adapted to diverse learning styles, and suggests ways for teachers to use the system. Includes seven recommendations for staff development. (MCG)

This self-directed staff development project was organized in order to utilize the learning-on-your-own concept within the context of professional development. Information is provided about the project's organization, about the types of learning projects undertaken, about barriers and aids to completing the projects, and about the role of…

Describes principal's role in transforming the Yamato Colony Elementary School in Livingston, California, from low-performing to high-performing in four years. (PKP)

When elementary school teachers become learners in staff development activities, they have special needs: (1) practical and concrete instruction; (2) individualized instruction; (3) extended practice time; (4) approval to modify and adapt new techniques; (5) site or team involvement; (6) instructors with teaching experience; (7) professional…

Continuous progress education is designed to relate to the special interests, needs, and abilities of each individual learner. A curriculum responsive to the needs of early adolescents would include the elements of content organization, learning activities, time allocations, student assessment, staff and materials development, and budget. (JN)

A model of the inservice training of classroom teachers for mainstreaming handicapped children is presented. The materials used in the program provide information about handicapping conditions as well as curriculum and behavior management styles. (JN)

A model of staff development is presented which applies inservice education methods to the special conditions of rural Alaska. An individualized, field-based training program is cooperatively planned with those receiving the training. Ultimately, each trainee constructs an implementation plan. A follow-up assesses whether the program objectives…

Differentiation holds great potential for improving student achievement. To clarify what true differentiation looks like in the classroom and how best to prepare teachers to differentiate, "JSD" discussed the practice with leaders at two schools noted for their exemplary use of differentiated education.