This document consists of the two 2000 issues of a semiannual newsletter that provides current information and research on leadership and administrative issues in early childhood education. The Fall 2000 issue discusses the use of research to promote sound policy and practice in early care and education, focusing on the implications of research in social and emotional competence, brain development, and adults' understanding of child development for the field of early care and education. The Winter 2000 issue is the second in a series of Research Notes to summarize the findings of the 1999 Illinois Early Childhood Directors' Salary Survey and focuses on employee benefits. Information is provided on the types and number of benefits received, the size of benefits, and benefits in comparison to those of teaching staff. (KB)