This paper presents findings of a study that investigated associations between the learning environments of schools and the principal's interpersonal behavior as perceived by teachers. It also describes the development and validation of an instrument to measure principals' interpersonal behaviors with their teaching staffs. The questionnaire was…

Within the research on teacher planning and decision making the principal is seldom mentioned as a key shaper of teachers' curricular and instructional decision making. This paper presents findings of a case study of two elementary school principals. The study examined the congruence between principals' aims and teachers' decisions; the statements…

A good deal of evidence now suggests that a strong sense of community in schools has benefits for both staff members and students, while providing a necessary foundation for school improvement. This digest provides an overview of the literature on schools as communities. The digest identifies the elements of community schools, the effects of…

This report describes the role of the vocational evaluator in identifying technology that will assist the client in overcoming functional limitations. The traditional approach to vocational evaluation as well as problems with this approach, including the limitations of standardized assessment procedures, are discussed. The report then outlines a…

In a discussion based on the Queensland Guidance and Counselling Association Code of Ethics, some of the issues which pose additional challenge for the private counseling practitioner are highlighted. Key points raised reflect a client-centered approach, substituting the public practice employer's organizational structure with the entity of the…

The purpose of this paper is to frame a preliminary report of a study of gender differences within the mentoring relationship associated with educational leadership. The study also examines the question of whether there is a difference in mentoring women, men, and minorities into positions of educational leadership. The research is based on…

This paper describes a practicum program that was developed to increase the effectiveness of the administrative team at one high school. A lack of communication skills had prevented the target group from working together as a team. Strategies included role-play activities, workshops, and communication skill-development meetings. A series of…

This paper outlines a model of interprofessional assistance and mentoring used to orient new staff members in a special education program. The mentoring model calls for three basic dispositions: opening ourselves, leading incrementally, and expressing care and concern. All mentors attempt to manifest the three dispositions as they relate to the…

Suggestions for improving teacher assessment of student performance are presented in this paper, with attention to ways in which superintendents can help. Suggested activities include pre- and post-observation conferences, a review of the teacher's plan book, and development of a professional growth plan. Because teachers as a group often lack…

This paper attempts to blend the literature on professionalism with the literature of community, thus positing a framework for a school-based professional community. Sociologists have long distinguished between occupations--even high status ones--and professions. Among the key distinctions of professionalism are: a technical knowledge base shared…

Approaches that schools can use to create a high-quality, professional, working community are provided in this journal issue. The report uses a case study to illustrate the process. A review of research reveals at least five major dimensions of the professional learning community: supportive and shared leadership, collective learning and…

Findings of a study that examined the effects of a statewide mentoring program for Illinois principals are presented in this paper, with a focus on the reasons for principals' behavior changes. Methodology involved interviews with six pairs of mentors and proteges, site observations, and artifact collection. Conclusions are that: (1) principals…

This paper examines formal arrangements to encourage successful mentoring partnerships. It asserts that the most effective way to provide access to a variety of mentoring relationships is through formal programs that have clear goals and outcomes. Four phases of a formal mentoring program include development, consolidation, sponsorship, and…

This paper examines the need for a mentoring program for school principals in developing countries where, as in South Africa, no formal structures for principal mentorships exist. Following an overview of mentoring and a review of literature, characteristics of a successful mentoring system and effective techniques for observation and feedback are…

The fundamental issue driving educational reform is the redistribution of power. School principals not only use their power to influence the behavior of teachers and students, but they are also affected by using power. This paper presents findings of a study that examined the relationship between principal self-efficacy and the principal's use of…