Alternative high schools have an important place in our educational system, since exellence in education must mean more than improving the abilities of those who are succeeding in our present school environment. A list of suggestions (nine "dos" and four "don'ts") are offered for consideration before establishing such a school. (MCG)

Provides an evaluation model and outlines steps to take in planning for the evaluation process. Such planning and organizing ensures that the evaluation process is achieved systematically. (IRT)

Jefferson Meetings were developed in 1984 to provide an innovative way to teach students an understanding of the United States Constitution. Describes how to organize such an event. (MD)

A principal/counselor partnership in a small Colorado high school uses a microcomputer to enhance their roles and effectively provide services for the school and students. They have developed a unique needs assessment process, a word processing program for senior letters of recommendation, and a database on gifted and talented programs. (MD)

Innovation insurance involves planning in order to avoid pitfalls. When adopting microcomputers, this means answering 10 preliminary questions, appointing a coordinator of computer services, and arranging inservice teacher training. (Author/JM)

Suggests techniques for planning and administering gifted programs, identifying gifted students, and gaining program acceptance. (JM)

The attitude and modeling behavior of the entire middle school staff is the most important factor in providing an effective school learning environment. Discusses program ingredients necessary to help staff members furnish authentic middle level education. Includes 15 references. (Author/MD)

Discusses development of the six components of any sound performance appraisal program: (1) explicit job descriptions, (2) definitions of key areas of responsibility, (3) criteria for performance appraisal, (4) methods for data collection and analysis, (5) written procedures, and (6) legal review of all procedures. (PGD)

The counselor works in a difficult position, and school guidance programs are in jeopardy today. To develop meaningful programs, administrators must hire counselors who will meet the needs of the school and participate in the evaluation of program outcomes. (MD)

Presents a theoretical model of internal-external communications and an example of an implementation procedure based on that model. (Author/IRT)

Identifies eight competencies needed to implement a school public relations program and reviews some of the basic ideas associated with each competency. (Author)

The Mentor School System (Ohio) recreated the role of department coordinator in all its secondary schools to develop a cadre of instructional leaders to break down the barriers between administrators and the classroom. (MD)

Presents and explains how to use a checklist for helping principals determine the presence of effective elements in their schools' staff development programs. The checklist process involves testing such program factors as school commitment levels, needs assessment components, program development activities, program implementation and evaluation,…

A superintendent explains the administrator's role in integrating computers into the instructional program. Lists factors to be kept in mind. (Author/JM)

Although counselors traditionally prefer individual counseling sessions with students, group sessions may be more effective. Provides five steps by which the principal can help counselors make this transition to group counseling. Includes 13 references. (Author/MD)