The characteristics of exemplary school board members are (1) being results-oriented, (2) knowing how to conduct meetings, (3) appreciating the school system employees, (4) having good communication skills, (5) expecting quality work from administrators, (6) understanding "public trust," and (7) being a public servant. (MD)

Two cases illustrate some of the recent issues and decisions on the dismissal of school principals. Principals are cautioned that courts tend to defer to the judgment of school boards, particularly on matters within the members' area of expertise or authority. (MLF)

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals found that a Texas school superintendent, having failed to submit a written contract to the school board for execution, had no basis for holding that a property interest in employment existed. Certainty about binding obligations requires written agreements signed by both parties. (PB)

Seven suggestions are provided to help superintendents plan and conduct more cohesive school board meetings: (1) research all proposals; (2) schedule time for discussion; (3) anticipate questions; (4) include background, rationale, and options for proposals; (5) present reports lucidly; (6) allow for independent exploration; and (7) follow up on…

This essay discusses use of an employment contract to serve and protect the interests of both a library director and the library board of trustees. Current problems, advantages of a contract to the board, board solidarity, advantages to the director, the workings of contracts, legal necessities, and limiting tenure are highlighted. (EJS)

Outlines 10 ways school boards harm themselves. (IRT)

The practice of granting tenure to academic administrators, especially presidents and academic deans, seems fairly prevalent. However, it is important to consider the possible advantages and disadvantages carefully before making such an offer. Boards interested in attracting talented administrators empowered to do what is in the best interest of…

Employee turnover contributes to lost production, disrupts normal business practices, and is expensive. This literature review examines turnover of three administrator positions: the school superintendent, the executive director of nonprofit agencies, and the chief executive officer of for-profit corporations. The most cited reason for turnover of…

Article discussed the interaction of college trustees and administrators as well as the local community. (RK)

New school board members need crash courses in boardmanship and basic educational principles. Such a move cannot help enhance their credibility rating with taxpayers, as well as lay the foundation for a new two-way relationship between administrators and policymakers. (Author/WM)

The principal is no longer regarded merely as a middle manager. An effective board relationship should develop his leadership role. (WM)

Conversation serves as a checklist for effective school food service. (MF)

Compares Rough Rock Demonstration School with three schools administered by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (B.I.A.), and finds that Rock Point, B.I.A.'s experimental school, has academic and dormitory programs definitely superior to the nationally publicized programs at Rough Rock. (JM)