A firm grounding in change theory can provide educational leaders with an opportunity to orchestrate meaningful organizational improvements. This article provides an opportunity for practicing leaders to review four major theories of organizational change--continuous improvement, two approaches to organizational learning, and appreciative inquiry.…

Because the demand for excellence in public education is ever present, this article explores the development of a professional enhancement program designed to select and develop a qualified, competent faculty and staff. The basis for the program is a strong educational philosophy, which leads to a vision of what schools can be. It stresses the…

After an absence of nine years from the principalship, this author noticed an older faculty, increased paperwork, decreased authority of principals, a slower decision-making process, an increase in services for children, more girls' athletics, and an unchanged curriculum. (Author/LD)

A membership organization, the Harvard Principals' Center is showing that school administrators will voluntarily engage in activities promoting their growth as leaders in school improvement. The center provides an external support system in which principals are able to play a major role in their own development. (MD)

Educational leadership, curriculum development, and staff development are critical areas that need improvement for long-term educational gains. (MD)

Describes a plan of action developed at an Illinois high school that involved staff in communicating needed improvement in curricular programs. (MD)

Maximum gain from teacher staff development programs can be assured through careful planning that accommodates novice and experienced teachers. Establishing clear student achievement goals linked to staff development is also important. Includes tables and references. (MD)

Meaningful and lasting school improvement can only occur in an appropriate climate and must be characterized by commitment, solid research about collaborative working styles and outcome-based education, and stable leadership. Leaders in the school improvement process should be constantly prepared to deal with the unexpected. Includes three…

Before attempting block scheduling reforms, some issues must be addressed, including information retention, transfer students, advanced placement offerings, electives, coordination of teacher and student schedules, and cost effectiveness. There are problems surrounding academic pacing, staff development needs, and time's interaction with other…

Outlines the development of a model high school program in Virginia that is designed to be a model-in-miniature of what the state's schools can do. Its goal is to develop practical solutions to the problems of high schools. (MD)