Presents two viewpoints on the question of using funding from the Vocational Education Act to maintain ongoing vocational programs. Ballard argues that programs have improved qualitatively because of additional program improvement monies, whereas Burdette argues that the ban on using funds for maintenance treats some states unfairly. (CH)

Good public relations begins with a good communication plan. Eight steps for getting started are (1) have a written plan; (2) begin internally; (3) communicate; (4) target your audience; (5) market; (6) meet the press; (7) know thyself; and (8) be happy on days you break even. (JOW)

Describes the process of developing a program to certify nannies. Includes a step-by-step guide to a new program. (JOW)

Describes the steps necessary to establish a career information center (CIC). Indicates that a successful CIC is testimony that the school endorses students' needs for occupational and career information. (JOW)

Vocational education is an important educational strategy that should be a key part of our national effort to reduce the dropout rate. However, we must ensure that vocational education is not seen as the only solution to the problem. We need a multifaceted approach that involves the entire educational system. (JOW)

Points out that the agriculture industry is changing and that vocational agriculture students must learn more science than before to be prepared. Iowa formed groups of educators and business representatives to advise on which curricula should be funded. (JOW)

Discusses the School-to-Work Opportunities Act, federal legislation that promises up to $300 million for education programs that give all students better access to postsecondary education and better jobs after high school. Offers principles to assist in obtaining some of the funding. (JOW)

The author presents and discusses some basic characteristics of effective coalitions. These characteristics include clearly defined mission, emphasis of common ideology and goals, equal power among groups, effective leadership, overlapping interests and frequent member contacts, image of power, variable resources, and appropriate termination. (CT)

The author describes how one teacher started a vocational agriculture program at a small high school and developed it into an agricultural institute featuring a money-making 11-acre farm. She discusses how he raised the necessary start-up funds and how the institute has helped unify the school. (CH)

Discusses the field of distance education, including such topics as (1) competition, (2) costs, (3) effect on students, and (4) teacher preparation. Also describes different types of video technology that can be used in distance education. (CH)

Describes the work of the National Council for Vocational and Technical Education in Agriculture--a national partnership organized to foster creative and innovative leadership for improving and developing agricultural education as part of public education. Examines the major issues that the council is currently addressing. (CT)

The author suggests new ways to meet the needs of adult students: develop greater sensitivity to the adult learner's needs; adopt a "total program approach" to adult vocational education; develop creative delivery systems; build alliances with other providers of adult education; and give more attention to adult instructor selection, orientation,…

Describes Idaho's comprehensive K-12 plan to develop the personal, educational, and occupatonal skills that all students need to profit from their educational experience. (JOW)

Discusses the District of Columbia's new career programs in its high schools, each in fields with projected job growth and each with corporate sponsors who participated in the program's design and curriculum development. Examines program costs, program development, design, and effectiveness. (CT)

Based on the "High Schools That Work" model, the Quad County Tech Prep Consortium in Florida has won several awards for its comprehensive tech prep program. The partnership enables technical students from four school districts to flow smoothly into an associate degree program at Indian River Community College. (JOW)