June 2008

Additional Resources

Congress takes up school construction bill
The 21st Century High Performing Public Schools Facilities Act, a bill which would authorize funds for school construction projects in fiscal year 2009, is moving quickly through Congress.

Florida school boards gear up for voucher battle
Several statewide initiatives on the November ballot in Florida could revive a major private school voucher program if passed.

Major NCLB rule changes proposed
Proposed new regulations to the No Child Left Behind Act would greatly increase districts' reporting requirements, set a uniform definition of the graduation rate, and strengthen the requirements for restructuring for schools that do not make adequate yearly progress (AYP).

Experts offer tips on hiring good teachers for urban high schools
Urban districts can improve the chances of attracting the best-qualified teachers to their schools if they streamline their application process and ensure that job openings are posted early.

National Affiliate Spotlight: Preschool pays off for Kansas district
The Kansas City, Kan., school district is working with Head Start and other local agencies to help its diverse populations prepare for school.

School boards consider benefits of assigning senior projects
A growing number of states are requiring students to complete senior projects, but implementation has been a challenge in some districts.

NSBA Editorial/Boards’ Eye View: Standards, NCLB, and the federal role
NSBA's Delegate Assembly has approved a resolution expressing its continuing opposition to federal legislation that would coerce states to adopt national academic standards.

Executive Director’s Report: Education technology is all about improving learning
Congress has passed legislation to protect the "Medicaid safety net" for schools. ... A new report issued by the Forum for Education and Democracy says the current federal strategy of mandates and sanctions for schools that perform poorly will not help the nation meet longstanding student achievement and equity goals. ... The results of a study conducted by the U.S. Education Department's Institute for Education Sciences indicate the Reading First program has not significantly improved reading comprehension among participating students. Education technology is all about improving learning. "Changing the culture is more important than changing the hardware," says NSBA Executive Director Anne L. Bryant.

Legal Ease/School Law Notes: COSA mentors the next generation of school attorneys
The school attorney can be your best resource in ensuring that the day-to-day business of running a school district goes smoothly.

Fast Report