Presents results of a 2-year study of Michigan's recipient rights protection system. Found weaknesses in the use of the system and its integration into agency operations, but overall effectiveness. Discusses implications of the system for other states. (Author/MCF)

Discusses the trend toward centralized decision making in schools brought about by state legislatures specifying curricular details. In the process, authority is shifted upwards to state level, and professionals become demoralized about changing or improving their schools' curricula. Citing Texas legislation and 11 other references, this paper…

Discusses legal requirements to be met in order for a child to testify, and when the use of audiovisual testimony is possible. Considers stress factors involved when a child is testifying, particularly in child abuse cases, and how audiovisual testimony can alleviate this problem. Discusses the 1983 Texas statute. (BB)

Calls for action to mitigate the crisis in science education that emerged in 1982 from segments of the American population, including scientists, science educators, and politicians. Florida's response to the crisis is reported, considering pertinent legislation, implementing the legislation, and the Florida Omnibus Education Act of 1984. (JN)

West Virginia's "Master Plan for Public Education" calls for a Professional Performance Assessment of student teachers in field-based programs. The challenge is to incorporate the assessments in the least intrusive manner. While there is skepticism, some cooperating teachers hope the screening will result in better-prepared student…

Child abuse is an issue of growing public concern. Seven questions and answers are presented pertaining to the legal risks and responsibilities of school personnel in reporting cases of child abuse. (TE)

The pros and cons of financial disclosure laws of varying strictness and their effects on school board members are discussed. Recent trends are noted and a tabulation is provided of the statutory requirements concerning disclosure of personal finances and campaign contributions in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. (PGD)

A content analysis of textbook adoption statutes of 22 states was undertaken to gain insight into the reasons behind state textbook adoption. Findings indicate the intent of state-level textbook adoption may be to control marketing practices of the publishing industry. (DF)

Recounts the formation of new policies for vocational education that have been legislated in Arizona. (SK)

Discusses what computer technology means for teachers and their careers, focusing on how proposed legislation may affect individuals already teaching computer courses and the status of jobs in computer education in the District of Columbia, Virginia, Florida, California, and Illinois. Considers kinds of positions available now and in the future.…

The State Education Agency's (SEA) role in gifted education is examined, and the need for mandatory legislation concerning gifted education and special teacher certification noted. The SEA's efforts in staff development and in promoting cooperation among postsecondary and secondary students are considered. (CL)

Provides a listing of all state guidelines and regulations pertaining to use of hypodermic syringes, eye safety, and animal care in biology and general science laboratories. (SL)

Focuses on the extent to which state action may restrict nudity in university theatres. (MH)