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School Board News Bulletin
April 1997

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New studies rank Illinois low in fairness of school funding

Another new study, conducted by the federal General Accounting Office (GAO), called School Finance: State Efforts to Reduce Funding Gaps Between Poor and Wealthy Districts, found Illinois' state share of school funding was the seventh lowest in the nation in 1991-92. The report noted that a state's share of school spending has a larger impact on equity than most other factors. Illinois' poor districts spent $2,919 per pupil below the amount spent by the state's wealthiest districts in 1991-92. Little change has occurred in Illinois in the years since 1991-92, according to the report.

In constant (1976) dollars, state support has plummeted from $877.53 per pupil in Fiscal Year 1976 to $765.66 in Fiscal Year 1995. This inflation- adjusted estimate comes from the Illinois State Board of Education publication State, Local and Federal Financing for Illinois Public Schools, 1995-96.

For a look at the reports by Education Week and the GAO comparing funding efforts among the 50 states, go to Education Week's website, and see the March 19 edition, at: http://www.edweek.org.

For a free copy of the GAO report, numbered HEHS-97-31, send requests to: U.S. General Accounting Office, P.O. Box 6015, Gaithersburg, MD 20884-6015; or call 202/512-6000.

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Visit NSBA's Internet website

• check a list of NSBA's primary programs and services and the staff members who can answer your questions.

• examine recent press releases from NSBA on vital issues that affect school boards and education.

• learn about NSBA's seminars, conferences and site visits planned for 1997.

• investigate NSBA's 1997 Annual Conference in Anaheim, California, April 26-29, including the conference program, speakers, exhibitors, hotel accommodations and registration information.

• join a discussion group online and talk with your peers about current board issues.

• peruse articles from recent issues of School Board News and other publications.

Links from the NSBA page offer connections to state school boards association websites, including IASB's site at: www.iasb.com.

The NSBA site is best viewed with the Netscape or Microsoft Internet browsers.

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Board members must file economic interest statements

Upon filing their statements, board members who plan to run for re-election this fall must be sure to get a receipt from their county clerk. This receipt must be filed with the school board secretary during the designated time for the filing of nominating papers this fall.

Those board members and others required to file who fail to meet the May 1 deadline may file late, subject to a late filing fee of $15, until May 15, or $100 per day from May 15 to May 31. More serious penalties are imposed for continued failure to file.

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Florida newspaper funds school effectiveness study

According to the newspaper's publisher, "the community needs a baseline from which to go forward and that's what this audit will provide."

The newspaper announced March 18 that it has hired SchoolMatch, an Ohio firm specializing in educational audits, to conduct the study. The company often is hired by school boards and private firms to conduct such studies. Yet only one such audit was ever commissioned by a local newspaper last fall in Columbus, Ohio.

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Those Who Excel awards nominations due by July 15

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PR guru's advice: Pay more attention to taxpayers

"Board members, superintendents, and educators talk about the kids the students as being the most important focus of their time, energy and money. While this is certainly the reason that schools are in business, the students are only the clients of the schools," according to Jackson.

"They are not the customers. They are not the shareholders who pay the bills. It is the taxpayers and citizens who pick up the tab for our work and we've got to pay more attention to them lest we find ourselves without any customers left. When that happens, there won't be any schools as we know them " Jackson warned.

Source: Network, National School Public Relations Association, March 1997.

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School boards foundation wins GE grant to address key issues

The foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization affiliated with NSBA. NSBA established the foundation in 1995 to help prepare school board members to become catalysts for systemic reform in the public schools.

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Referendum results

School bond issues fared much better, with 19 of 41 proposals getting voter approval. That means bond issues saw a success rate of 46 percent.

Tax rate increases were approved in Park Ridge C.C. District 64; Ridgeland District 122; Riverside District 96; Rooks Creek District 425, (with two successful referendums for education and operations); Lebanon Community District 9; O'Fallon District 90; Homer Community District 33, located in Lockport in Will County; and Taft District 90.

Bond issues were approved in Park Ridge C.C. District 64; Riverside District 96; Pontiac Township District 90; Gridley District 10; DuQuoin District 300; Nashville District 49; Champaign C.U. District 4; St. Joseph-Ogden District 305; Wesclin District 3; Girard C.U. District 3; Sycamore District 427; Prairie Grove District 46; Gurnee District 56; Hawthorn District 73; North Shore District 112; Barrington District 220; Columbia Community District 4; O'Fallon District 90; and Smithton District 130.

The largest downstate bond issue that won approval, a $26.3 million proposal in Sycamore, apparently won by a margin of 2,067 "yes" to 2,060 "no" votes.

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FEDERAL UPDATE

Federal waiver requests due by May 1

• Title 1 [Sec. 14401 and 1113(a)(7)ESEA]

• Goals 2000 [Sec. 311(a) Educate America Act]

• School-to-Work [Sec. 502] for the 1997-98 school year.

For additional information, see the Federal Register notice (Volume 61, No. 184, pg. 49441). Or contact Collete Roney at the Waiver Assistance Line: 201/401-7801, or the Internet site: http://www.ed.gov/flexibility.

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Judge says no to prayer

U.S. District Judge Ira DeMent ruled March 13 that the 1993 law violated the federal Constitution by creating "excessive entanglement" between religion and state and by leaving some students with "no choice but to listen to the prayers of their peers."

The ruling addresses a lawsuit filed last year by Michael Chandler, an assistant principal at Valley Head Middle School, and a student's mother. They charged that the law forced teachers to allow students to pray out loud in class and give Bible readings.

Alabama Gov. Fob James, a strong supporter of religious expression in public places, plans to advise state residents to ignore the ruling.

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Anti-harassment guidelines available

OCR published guidelines in the March 13 Federal Register clarifying the standards used to investigate and resolve allegations of sexual harassment of students by school employees, students and others.

Sexual harassment is prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which ban sex discrimination in education programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance.

The guidelines outline steps schools can take to recognize, respond to, and correct problems of harassment; suggest ways schools can prevent harassment; and spell out the requirements for grievance procedures.

The guidelines appear on the department's Internet site: http://www.ed.gov/offices/u.c./ocrshplan.html.

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RESEARCH REPORTS: Facts and figures for school leaders

Most teachers now using Internet

The study also showed:

• educators in grades 3-5 use the Net at school just as frequently as those in grades 9-12;

• Library/Research educators are the most frequent users of the Internet at school, especially when it is used for instruction;

• Netscape Navigator is the most popular Web browser, with 71.8 percent of the sample indicating that they use it;

• The respondents' five top-rated Web sites are: National Geographic Online, NASA, PBS Online, Scholastic Network, and America Online Education.

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Title I shows little effect: Study

While the study was underway, Congress approved major changes to the program. It ordered high standards for all students, emphasized schoolwide programs, and increased parental involvement.

Those schools in poor areas that were successful in improving student achievement had lower mobility rates for students and teachers, fewer disciplinary problems, strong community support, and a curriculum that balanced basic and higher-level skills.

To order Prospects: Impact on Participation in Chapter 1 on Student Outcomes, call the Education Department at 202/401-0518.

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NEWS FROM IASB

What's new on the school board website?

The School Law segment now incorporates a searchable version of the Illinois School Code and Related Acts. The document itself consists of all the statutes carried in the IASB printed version of the Code. More important, the Code is presented by the Michie Company encased in a user-friendly search engine that makes it easy to locate laws, download and print.

Adjacent to the School Code is a page of new questions 55 of them to be exact that will appear in the next edition of Illinois School Law Survey when it is published in 1998. The questions are organized by general topic. Owners of the 1996 edition of the Law Survey can add the new questions by downloading and printing them.

These two additions to the School Law segment combine with a summaries of key court rulings and some links to other law-related sites.

Other new features on the IASB homepage include an updated calendar of coming events and direct links to other web sites dealing with school governance and the Illinois legislative scene. Of course, you can still use the IASB web site to read IASB periodicals, download community relations materials, identify districts contracting with IASB staff to help find a new superintendent, check out the schedule of legal dates and deadlines, identify qualified school attorneys in your region, and use a host of other tools and information sources.

To reach the IASB Web site on the Internet, direct your browser to http://www.iasb.com.

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Tech 2000 demonstrates classroom technology

Those were just two of the projects displayed by students from more than 100 elementary and high schools statewide at the sixth annual Tech 2000 event at the State Capitol Building, April 16. The event Tech 2000: Students for the Information Age was sponsored by Tech 2000 in partnership with AT&T.

State lawmakers were invited to visit the demonstrations by schools from their respective legislative districts. In addition, the event was open free to the public.

"It is essential that today's students know how to use the technology that will enable them to get the good jobs in the 21st century," said Pete Weber, Deputy Executive Director of IASB.

Weber noted that "there is an increasing awareness on the part of lawmakers and policy makers that classroom technology is the new classroom basic. While the technology literacy movement is gaining momentum, we are a long way from our goal of ensuring that every child has access to up-to-date technology."

Bill Ketchum, AT&T's president, central states, said "AT&T is committed to helping students, parents, and educators excel in applying technology to improve education."

The Tech 2000 steering committee is composed of several Illinois school districts and organizations such as IASB, the Large Unit District Association, and the Illinois State Board of Education, that support efforts to increase the use of technology in education.

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TOOLS FOR SCHOOLS

Internet budget builder unveiled

"Urban school budgets have long been seen as something only the "experts" could understand," said Anne C. Hallett, Executive Director of the Cross City Campaign. "Hundreds of pages of indecipherable codes have created an enormous barrier between many school communities and the funds they need to improve schools. The Seattle Public Schools has taken a bold and unprecedented step to break through this barrier and make school budgeting understandable and accessible to principals, teachers and parents."

The Budget Builder is an electronic workbook, accessible on the Internet, that allows principals, teachers, parents and others in the community to test various spending scenarios and develop their schools' budgets. Using Internet technology, the Budget Builder will be linked to central office budget information as well as a wealth of information about school improvement. Included are success stories from Seattle and across the nation.

Seattle Public Schools' chief financial officer, Joseph Olchefske stated, "The Budget Builder provides leading edge technology to simplify the school budgeting process." Olchefske said it allows school communities to "focus on what is most important superior education for all students."

The Budget Builder's Internet address is: http://sps.gspa.washington.edu/sps/.

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Drug abuse prevention programs graded

The 36-page report reviews 33 school drug prevention programs and 14 comprehensive health programs, rating them in such areas as cost, developmental appropriateness, ease of administration, and overall quality. For 10 of the prevention programs that were extensively evaluated, the report summarizes what the evaluations have shown about their effectiveness in reducing student drug abuse.

The report gives only five of the 33 school drug prevention programs an "A" in overall program quality: the Alcohol Misuse Prevention Program, Life Skills Training, Project ALERT, Project Northland, and STAR. They are designed specifically for middle and high school students. Only one of the 14 comprehensive health programs received an "A," the Michigan Model, a curriculum for grades K to 8, consisting of 40 to 60 lessons per year.

An ABC-Washington Post news poll released March 3 found that while 52 percent of parents rate drugs in the schools as a crisis or a serious problem, only 34 percent of teens do.

Source: Making the Grade: A Guide to School Drug Prevention Programs is available for $12.95 prepaid from Drug Strategies, 2445 M Street NW, Suite 480, Washington, DC 20037. Phone: 202/663-6090. Quantity discounts are available.

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New AT&T learning points program lets callers help local schools

With the AT&T Learning Points Program, AT&T's residential long-distance customers nationwide generate five Learning Points for every dollar they spend on qualifying AT&T calls and may direct points to any of the 110,000 accredited public and private K-12 schools in the United States. Registered schools can redeem the points for free hardware, software and teacher support materials.

"Consumers nationwide now have a convenient way to help schools obtain the latest technology products and teacher support materials that will be vital in preparing our nation's youth for the next millennium," said William K. Ketchum, AT&T's president for central states.

"All schools and consumers have to do is make one call to AT&T to sign up, and participation in the program does not cost customers or schools an extra cent," Ketchum said.

"AT&T consumers can support any accredited K-12 school they choose whether it's the elementary school down the street, a grandchild's school in another state or an alma mater," he added. "And once they sign up, points are automatically calculated and credited to the school's account. There are no forms to fill out, nothing to collect."

The program is the newest component of the AT&T Learning Network, the company's five-year, $150 million commitment to improving education through the use and support of technology. The focus is to provide teachers with training, mentoring, and curriculum development on using the new technology.

For the second year in a row, the company co-sponsored TECH 2000: Students for the Information Age, April 16. This program brought demonstrations of school technology applications to legislators at the State Capitol building in Springfield. In addition, AT&T has hosted community forums at Governors State University and the College of DuPage on integrating technology into the school curriculum.

To register for the AT&T Learning Points Program, schools and consumers should call 800/354-8800 or contact the AT&T Learning Points web site at www.att.com/learningpoints.

AT&T residential long-distance consumers who register for the program will generate 500 bonus points for the schools of their choice.

In addition, members of the AT&T True Rewards Program can opt to redeem their True Rewards points to support a local school. Each True Rewards point redeemed is equal to 10 Learning Points.

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Book explores hot topics in education

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Compare your district with all U.S. school districts

For more information, phone MESA at 800/338-2666.

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The tax cap: Help your community understand the implications

The program should be a useful tool for educating both voters and school leaders, especially in counties that have not yet adopted the cap. Featured speakers include analysts from the Illinois Department of Revenue and State Board of Education, as well as spokesmen from schools and other taxing bodies that have been affected by a tax cap.

IASB served as a co-sponsor of the interactive-television program broadcast from Western Illinois University via satellite on Wednesday, March 26. The Association has a small supply of video tapes of the 90-minute telecast now available for lending.

Anyone interested in borrowing a copy of the taped program can call Tammy Call in the Publication Department (extension 1108) or send her a Fax at 217/753-2485. Be sure to indicate dates when the tape is needed and when it can be returned.

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Libraries place page for parents on Web

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Offer grants for arts curriculum

Winning sites generally will be those that show strong pre-planning with a specific artist. Under the auspices of one application, schools may be funded for one or more of the following activities:

• development of new curriculum and/or revision of an existing curriculum;

• specific teacher training initiatives in the arts;

• and development of local assessment approaches for the fine arts.

Schools or districts interested in the program should review the eligibility requirements, available from the Illinois Arts Council. An "intent to apply" form must be submitted no later than May 1, 1997.

For information contact Joanne Vena at the Illinois Arts Council offices at 312/814-6765; fax 312/814-1471.

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WORKSHOPS & MEETINGS

State Board of Education will train volunteers to join quality review teams

The ISBE is beginning a series of Quality Assurance reviews in Illinois schools. Their purpose is to provide an opportunity to improve student learning, increase the involvement of stakeholders in education and institute an accurate account of student progress and achievement in Illinois. Review teams composed of senior reviewers, conveners and reviewers will visit Illinois public schools to observe teaching and learning; review student learning, progress and achievement; and assess the learning community.

"What children learn or do not learn in school affects us all," said State Superintendent Joseph Spagnolo. "That is why it is so important for everyone to take an interest in schooling. Today's students will be tomorrow's business and community leaders."

Individuals who wish to become review team members must attend a scheduled three-day training session conducted by the ISBE. Please see the following schedule of training dates, targeted audiences, and locations.

University course credit will be available to all review team participants. Administrators' Academy credit will be available for individuals who participate in the three-day training sessions, or serve on an external review team if they are otherwise eligible for IAA credit.

Those interested in becoming a review team member may contact the ISBE's Center for Accountability and Quality Assurance at 217/782-2948 or e-mail: hfonvill@ spr.isbe.state.il.us.

Training dates for quality assurance process:

June 5-7, 1997
Springfield Holiday Inn East
Reviewer/Wider Community Training

Proposed dates:

June 24-26, 1997
Springfield Area
Senior Reviewer Training

July 8-10, 1997
Chicago Area
Reviewer/Wider Community and School Team Training

July 29-31, 1997
Central Illinois
Reviewer/Wider Community and School Team Training

August 5-7, 1997
Chicago Area
Reviewer/Wider Community and School Team Training

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New superintendent skills are seminar focus

The series of seminars will include current case studies drawn from school districts. They will focus on: the superintendent as educational leader, governance and school board relations, building a strong leadership team, negotiating conflict, and articulating a coherent educational vision.

Faculty at the series will include AASA Executive Director Paul Houston, Boston superintendent and former assistant secretary in the U.S. Department of Education Tom Payzant, and New York City schools chancellor Rudy Crew.

Participants from last year reportedly were enthusiastic about what they learned and said they were able to apply it.

"The seminar built my confidence and my motivation to address my major challenges," said Sandra Husk of Denver, Colorado.

Edward Westervelt of Allendale, New Jersey, said the seminar was especially helpful in thinking through his role as an instructional leader. He was able to use skills learned in a session on "dealing with the media" when he was interviewed for ABC News.

For information or to register, contact Mindy Boyer, program coordinator, Programs in Professional Education, Harvard Graduate School of Education, 800/545-1849 or 617/495-3572.

Source: Leadership News, AASA, March 15, 1997.

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Conflict resolution sessions offered

The sessions will instruct educators on how to teach methods of conflict resolution.

Sponsors will employ an application process to select school-based teams. There will not be a fee for registration or workshop materials, but participants will be responsible for their own travel, meals and lodging expenses.

The locations and dates of the institutes are as follows: June 3-5, Marion; June 10-12, Springfield; and June 24-26, Oak Lawn.

For further information and an application packet, phone Donna Crawford, Illinois Institute for Dispute Resolution, at 217/384-4118.

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Teacher entrepreneurs discussed

Enterprising educators who "hang out a shingle" remain a tiny fraction of the nation's teachers, says Chris Yelich, executive director of the Association of Educators in Private Practice (AEPP). In seeking professional autonomy, however, they are pioneering new ways for teachers and schools to operate.

In recent years, school boards have begun contracting with professional practices of teachers and companies to manage schools or deliver components of the curriculum. The school board contracts for privately delivered instructional services and holds the private practice accountable for predetermined student achievement results.

Charter school organizers, education technology experts, enterprising educators and school reformers from 30 states will attend ED Ventures '97.

The Association of Educators in Private Practice, Charter Friends National Network, and "The Education Industry Report" are sponsors of the conference.

Conference information is available from Chris Yelich, AEPP, N7425 Switzke Road, Watertown, WI, 800/252-3280 or e-mail Yelichris@aol.com.

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Illinois School District Liquid Asset Fund Plus

More than $536 million was invested in the Fixed Rate program, at rates of 5.35 percent for a 30-day certificate to 5.88 percent for a one-year certificate. For more information about ISDLAF+, call, toll-free, 1-800/221-4524.

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Classified ads

FOR SALE: 25 Apple II-E computers make an offer. Call or write: Richard Van Kerrebroeck, Superintendent, Annawan Unit District 226, Box 387, Annawan, IL 61234; 309/935-6781.

FOR SALE: Used Savin 720 Copier. Best offer. Contact: James Carrow, Dimmick District 175, LaSalle, IL 61301; 815/223-2933.

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Recent mailings from IASB

March 25: Spring bargaining clinic announcement, mailed to board presidents.

April 1: Delegate Assembly resolution submission forms and letter, to board presidents and district superintendents.

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IASB School Board News Bulletin
Illinois Association of School Boards