NASSP Bulletin

The recommendations set forth in Developing Character: Transmitting Knowledge, a recent statement signed by promi nent scholars and educators, are reviewed here for principals. The statement focuses on the importance of education for char acter development.

Can the writing ability of students really be assessed by using standardized, objective tests? This question is explored here along with a discussion of the alternatives and some advice for principals to help their English and language arts teachers con front the issue.

Teaching can no longer simply be defined as going into the classroom, shutting the door, and doing an exemplary job. That's the opinion of this writer, who notes how teachers— specifically teachers of English—can have an impact on the curriculum.

Having worked for several years with three Wisconsin school districts—Ashwaubenon, Cedarburg, and Milwaukee—the au thor describes the metaplan that emerged for developing dis trictwide improvement plans. He presents a completed plan to clarify the process. The participating school districts welcome inquiries.

Middle schools are here to stay, these writers say. They believe the overriding purpose of middle level education continues to be that of providing programs based on the unique characteristics, needs, and interests of middle level students.