Featured are 8 of the 17 exemplary staff development programs selected by the Advisory Panel of the National Center for the Improvement of Learning. Nine of the programs were featured in the February issue. (Author/DCS)

Describes a model for Hispanic farm laborer irrigation schools that was developed, implemented, and evaluated by cooperative extension personnel. Success of the approach was due to attention to critical elements in the model, which is applicable to other adult basic education programs. (JOW)

With a goal of increasing the use of evidence-based practices in special education programs and improve student outcomes, a research demonstration project was developed through a unique partnership of special educators, parents, administrators, and investigators. This brief reports on the method, implementation, and initial findings from this…

The No Child Left Behind Act leaves no doubt about the importance of effective reading instruction, setting a national goal for every child to become a proficient reader by the third grade. With 70% of fourth graders from low income families currently unable to read at even a basic level, teachers face a daunting challenge. The schools described…

The Local Systemic Change through Teacher Enhancement Initiatives carry forward the systemic reform efforts of the Directorate for Education and Human Resources and the goals of the Teacher Enhancement (TE) Program in the Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education at the National Science Foundation (NSF). The TE Program supports…

This report showcases four programs nationally recognized as leaders in family literacy--each of these programs has participated in a validation process sponsored by the National Diffusion Network (NDN), an agency of the United States Department of Education that disseminates information and training about exemplary educational programs and…

The author examines characteristics of effective teachers of gifted students in the United States by reviewing research on topics of mentorship, trait theory, behaviorism, creativity, change agents, and leadership; cites accepted teacher competencies; describes a model teacher education program; and notes federal, state, and local efforts to…

Describes several outstanding high school physics programs and analyzes the reasons for their success. This analysis suggests a set of conditions for creating successful programs at other schools. A list of goals for successful physics programs is included. (JN)

The Career Guidance Institute is designed to orient public high school students to the world of work. The program profiles various occupations with in-depth observation, hands-on opportunities, and possible temporary employment, enabling students to make intelligent educational and career choices. (SK)

The Marshalltown (Iowa) High School offers a model program for mildly retarded students involving simulated work situations, individualized instruction, integration with regular classes, and involvement in a work/study program. (CL)

Discusses a three-step model for diagnosing supervisory training needs. Major steps included in the model are (1) data collection (divided into two phases), (2) diagnosis, and (3) separating the problems. (LRA)

A program similar to that of the paramedic has become popular in recent years in the field of veterinary medicine. A Pennsylvania study is currently underway to identify the appropriate paravetical competencies used in vocational agriculture and availability of resources necessary to provide experiences. (LRA)

Presents the instructional rationale used in design of the Basic Skills Learning System, a modularized network of computer assisted tutorials, drills, tests, printed materials, and videotaped presentations directed at improving basic reading, math, and language skills of adults below eighth-grade level. Teaching strategies that impact reading…

Describes the mainstreaming efforts of the Madison (Wisconsin) School District, where every moderately and severely retarded student is instructed in four curricular areas: vocational, community, leisure recreational, and domestic. (LRA)

The column examines five university based child development centers and/or child study clinics which work with handicapped children. (PHR)