Reviews the operational steps in conducting a major needs assessment study. Discusses who should be involved in the process, when the process should be conducted, how the process should be conducted, general steps, and criteria for an effective model. (CT)

The article reviews the Diagnostic Assessment Procedure and related facets of the evaluation process within the Program to Develop Efficiency in Visual Functioning. Basic assumptions, rationale for development, administration, interpretation, and use of the program are considered. (Author/PHR)

The Multiattribute Utility Model combines subjective goal definition with objective data analysis. Goals are defined, ranked, and weighted. Subjective opinions about their attainment are assigned against decision alternatives considered by the school. Bayesian analysis of data enables revision of prior opinions about the realization of goals…

Addresses two questions: (1) What is the need for providing specialized education services to the handicapped students in correctional settings? (2) And given that the need exists, what are the implications of developing such programs? (CT)

Sets forth the future program development responsibilities of the administrator of vocational special needs programs. Discusses terminology, funding, and program content. Also examines major issues, incentives, realistic expectations, and accountability. (CT)

The article presents a "magic circle" model for designing, implementing, and evaluating programs for gifted, talented, and creative students. (DLS)

Physical measures such as weapons checks and metal detectors are inadequate to forestall school violence. The key to managing crises is a trained, broad-based crisis-intervention team and a crisis-management plan. Team responsibilities include developing an intervention plan, coordinating with community services, educating and training staff, and…

The growth of the Children, Youth and Families At Risk National Initiative into a base program was charted through a survey documenting changes in 22 participating states' ability to develop and sustain programs. Data from 1997-1998 and 2000-2001 reveal gains in four of six components: statewide commitment, individuals' understanding of states'…

Many elementary schools are adding a prekindergarten year because of increasing concern for at-risk children lacking adequate supervision. Meeting a child's needs early is much more effective than later remediation. This article discusses three major considerations in designing such programs: teacher selection, space requirements, and…

Discusses mentorship as a policy mechanism for women educators in (Australian) government school systems. Describes mentorship as a powerful strategy that greatly assists professionals' career development and mobility. Compares three different mentoring types (traditional, professional, and institutionalized) and argues for nonelitist professional…

Foreign language study is finding a niche in the elementary school curriculum. Schools now offer Chinese, Russian, Arabic, Swedish, and Japanese, instead of teaching mostly German and the Romance languages. Studies agree that children pursuing foreign languages show more creativity, divergent thinking, and higher-order thinking skills and score…

Document imaging, a technology that transforms printed text, figures, and pictures into computer-accessible forms, may be offered as a solution to document management problems involving space and personnel. Administrators and planners should understand relevant issues, considerations, difficulties, and options. Examples are drawn from the…

Afterschool or latchkey programs provide professional care for youngsters while building confidence among students and parents. This article describes three program options: site-based, centralized, and outsider programs. Before proceeding, principals must discover parents' expectations, consider available facilities, obtain trained staff, and…

Explores student and teacher views about an advisor-advisee program being conducted in a rural midwestern middle school. Although teachers overwhelmingly supported the advisory concept, they (as well as students) made several suggestions for improving the school's program: eliminating a controversial Positive Action program; removing disruptive…

Taking students seriously is the key to the student evaluator model. Aided by an experienced evaluation facilitator, students design and carry out evaluations of specific programs in which they are involved. For a project to succeed, those in charge must place their trust in the students and help create a climate of acceptance for the project. Two…