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	<title>Maintaining Principal Connections</title>
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	<link>http://www.principalconnections.org</link>
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		<title>Find the Best Web Hosting Discount Price</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/find-the-best-web-hosting-discount-price.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/find-the-best-web-hosting-discount-price.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 10 Jul 2011 10:27:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=428</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Find the Best Web Hosting Discount Price The hosting marketplace is a middling competitory one. That means as the consumer, you are king. So do n&#8217;t settle for too costly hosting. There are low cost services that are quite dependable as well. Why waste money on something that you can get at low prices? Here [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Find the Best Web Hosting Discount Price</p>
<p>The hosting marketplace is a middling competitory one. That means as the consumer, you are king. So do n&#8217;t settle for too costly hosting. There are low cost services that are quite dependable as well. Why waste money on something that you can get at low prices? Here is how you can find my personal favorite web hosting at a discount price.</p>
<p>Step 1 : Think about your own goals.<br />
Step 2 : Read customer critical reviews on forums.<br />
Step 3 : Read unbiassed critiques on hosting sites.<br />
Step 4 : Search for coupon codes.<br />
Step 5 : Purchase the idealistic hosting package.</p>
<p>Step 1 : Think about your own goals.</p>
<p>The first step is to be clear about your own goals. What type of website do you want to setup? That will help you ascertain the condition of resources you need. For instance, if you only need a website with 10 static pages, all you need is a shared hosting account. That will cost you less than $ 10 per month.<br />
<a href="http://www.webhostingreviewzone.net/web-hosting-bandwidth-explained/">How Much Bandwidth Do I Need</a><br />
Step 2 : Read customer reviews on forums.</p>
<p>Visit useful hosting forums and read what others have to say about various hosting companies. After browsing for a couple of hours or so, you will notice that a few names will pop up everywhere. Jot down these names so that you can continue to inquiry on these companies.</p>
<p>Step 3 : Read indifferent reviews on hosting sites.</p>
<p>Continue your research by visiting critical review sites. There are many excellent review sites on the Internet, most of which offers unbiased reviews. You know the reviews are indifferent when you see both pros and cons listed on the same submit. Since you have already completed step 2, you should have a fairly good idea of whether the reviews are accurate or not. This step is just for substantiation.</p>
<p>Step 4 : Search for coupon codes.<br />
<a href="http://www.webhostingreviewzone.net/hostgator-coupon-codes/">HostGator Coupon</a></p>
<p>Now that you know which service provider is true, it&#8217;s now time to sign up for a hosting account. Before doing so, make sure you look for coupon codes. Usually, coupon codes are available for new customers. This is a common marketing proficiency that is utilized by hosting companies to attract new customers. Enter the coupon code to enjoy huge discounts.<br />
<a href="http://www.webhostingreviewzone.net/dreamhost-coupon-codes/">DreamHost Coupon</a><br />
Step 5 : Leverage the ideal hosting package.</p>
<p>With all the data you need at your finger tips, you can now proceed with the purchase. Signing up will be a breeze at this stage. You know which company offers excellent services, and you know how to get lower prices.</p>
<p>You may ask, &#8220;Why go through all that trouble when buying hosting?&#8221; .</p>
<p>Well, when an account may cost you just $ 10 a month, doing your research well may keep from lots of problems later on. For example, if you use the cheapest host and later find that the servers are unstable, it may take a lot of time and involvement to migrate the website. So do n&#8217;t go straight for the cheapest hosting. Shelling out a couple of days doing some enquiry will pay huge dividends.</p>
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		<title>When Your Child is the Bully</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/when-your-child-is-the-bully.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/when-your-child-is-the-bully.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 29 Jun 2011 14:37:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bullying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Parent]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=423</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#160; Image via Wikipedia Having your child be subject to teasing and bullying while at school can be heart-breaking for most parents. The feelings of helplessness often overwhelm parents and leave them unable to assist their child in coping with and solving the problem. However, the situation can be even more difficult for parents who [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="zemanta-img" style="float: right; width: 310px; margin: 1em;"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Rebecca1917version.jpg"><img style="border: none;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bc/Rebecca1917version.jpg/300px-Rebecca1917version.jpg" alt="Physical bullying at school, as depicted in th..." width="300" height="228" /></a>&nbsp;</p>
<p class="zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Rebecca1917version.jpg">Wikipedia</a></p>
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<p>Having your child be subject to teasing and bullying while at school can be heart-breaking for most parents. The feelings of helplessness often overwhelm parents and leave them unable to assist their child in coping with and solving the problem. However, the situation can be even more difficult for parents who discover that it is their child who is doing the <a href="http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/bully-victim-s-mother-considers-suing-school-4247418?ref=rss" target="_blank">bullying</a>. When kids bully others at school, daycare or in other situations, parents often fail to recognize the signs. They may even praise their children for &#8221;standing up for themselves&#8221; or &#8221;not taking guff&#8221; from other kids. When they are forced to realized that their child&#8217;s behavior is unacceptable, they often blame themselves.</p>
<p>Of course, applying blame isn&#8217;t helpful and only diverts attention from the real issue, which is responsibility. When parents take responsibility for what they are teaching their children, they are also helping kids take responsibility for their own actions. This cycle is much more conducive to interrupting the trend of bullying and related school violence and is much healthier for all parties involved.</p>
<p>If your child is exhibiting bullying behavior, you must take immediate steps to stop this. Once you feel you have convinced the child that what he is doing is wrong, take a look at some possible causes for his behavior. You may need to consider counseling or at the very least schedule some conferences with his teachers, principal or guidance counselor. Your child needs to understand that bullying is a serious problemand that you are committed to helping him stop.</p>
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		<title>School Violence and Bullying</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence-and-bullying.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence-and-bullying.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:37:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bullying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Columbine High School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=422</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#160; Image via Wikipedia School violence came to the forefront of the news when two students brought guns to Columbine High School in Colorado and opened fire on the students, faculty and staff. Thirteen people were killed in the attack and another 21 individuals suffered injuries of varying degrees. This wasn&#8217;t the first incidence of school [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="zemanta-img" style="float: right; width: 310px; margin: 1em;"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bullying_Irfe.jpg"><img style="border: none;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/58/Bullying_Irfe.jpg/300px-Bullying_Irfe.jpg" alt="Bullying on IRFE in March 5, 2007, the first c..." width="300" height="225" /></a>&nbsp;</p>
<p class="zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bullying_Irfe.jpg">Wikipedia</a></p>
</div>
<p>School violence came to the forefront of the news when two students brought guns to Columbine High School in Colorado and opened fire on the students, faculty and staff. Thirteen people were killed in the attack and another 21 individuals suffered injuries of varying degrees. This wasn&#8217;t the first incidence of school violence, nor was it the last, but it did focus America&#8217;s attention on the need for better prevention of <a href="http://www.education.com/topic/school-bullying-teasing/">bullying</a> and other types of school violence.</p>
<p>Since then, the Columbine tragedy and other similar instances have initiated questions concering the causes of this type of behavior, including <a href="http://www.education.com/reference/article/how-widespread-is-bullying/" target="_blank">violence</a> in movies and video games, medications for juvenile depression or attention-deficit disorders and even the discipine that American children do and do not receive at home. So far, there have been no definitive causes and thus no absolute solutions. What we do know is that horrific school violence situations can stem from what was previously considered to be ordinary bullying.</p>
<p>There is no such thing as harmless bullying. Not only does this type of behavior do massive amounts of harm to the victims, but also those guily of the <a href="http://www.education.com/reference/article/bullying-sexual-harassment-dating/" target="_blank">bullying</a>. When parents send the message that bullying is a part of growing up or should be handled by the children themselves, they are validating the emotional causes in the bully. When kids grow up believing that &#8221;might makes right,&#8221; they have a difficult time adjusting to situations in which they enjoy little power, and may even have a higher incidence of adult criminal behavior.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Requirements for Principals</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/requirements-for-principals.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/requirements-for-principals.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jun 2011 14:37:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Discipline]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Head teacher]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teacher]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=421</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many teachers may aspire to leadership or administration positions, especially given the increased authority, responsibility and salary potential that principals enjoy. However, becoming a principal may be more difficult than one might think. Consider the skills that are necessary to succeed with this job title and compare these skills to those demonstrated by the best teachers. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Many teachers may aspire to leadership or administration positions, especially given the increased authority, responsibility and salary potential that principals enjoy. However, becoming a principal may be more difficult than one might think. Consider the skills that are necessary to succeed with this job title and compare these skills to those demonstrated by the best teachers. There seems to be very little overlap. Principals need to be able to consider the needs of the faculty, staff, students and the school as a whole. In addition, becoming a principal may be easier if planned for during one&#8217;s own education.</p>
<p>In addition to a teacher&#8217;s certification and related bachelor&#8217;s degree, most candidates for a <a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/ontario/the-job-of-principal-is-becoming-too-focused-on-paperwork-report-says/article2042344/" target="_blank">principal</a> position must also hold a master&#8217;s degree in educational administration. This requirement adds another year or two onto the already-stringent coursework and may also include an internship. Interns are asked to assist existing principals in their administrative duties while they learn on-the-job about meeting state requirements and managing staff.</p>
<p>The educational requirements for <a href="http://www.kauffman.org/newsroom/building-teacher-quality-in-the-kansas-city-missouri-school-district.aspx" target="_blank">principals</a> may vary considerably from state to state, and even from one school district to the next. Students who are considering a career in education and believe that they may eventually decide to pursue a principal position should plan accordingly. Working the required courses in to the curriculum while in the undergraduate years is much easier than beginning a master&#8217;s degree program while in the workforce. Also, these students will have a much better picture of what being a principal really means if they are aware of the additional challenges early on.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Setting the Right Example</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/setting-the-right-example.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/setting-the-right-example.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 May 2011 17:47:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Discipline]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=371</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#160; Image via Wikipedia Discipline is an important aspect of life and it is something that is inculcated from a young age both at home and at school. No matter which way you look at it, discipline is an important aspect to growing into a mature individual. The one problem with discipline is that there [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="zemanta-img" style="margin: 1em; float: right; display: block; width: 310px;"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Children_working.JPG"><img style="border: medium none; display: block;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4f/Children_working.JPG/300px-Children_working.JPG" alt="Children volunteering" width="300" height="225" /></a>&nbsp;</p>
<p class="zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Children_working.JPG">Wikipedia</a></p>
</div>
<p>Discipline is an important aspect of life and it is something that is inculcated from a young age both at home and at school. No matter which way you look at it, discipline is an important aspect to growing into a mature individual. The one problem with discipline is that there is a fine line between what is good discipline and what is not. Research as well as several debates and studies have been conducted from the perspective of parents as well as educationists.</p>
<p>Several schools adhere to certain <a href="http://www.mathguide.com/services/Discipline/Strategies.html" target="_blank">methods</a>. These range from specialized attention, counseling, heart-to-heart sessions and more. The concept of discipline in the olden ages was one of <a href="http://www.pioneersholesschool.org/pages/discipline.html" target="_blank">strict dictatorship</a>. Nobody in the classroom was allowed to make noise or move out of turn. Perhaps, that is why we have a generation of adults who are strict disciplinarians to the point of a being a little feared. However, times have changed and students require a more delicate approach.</p>
<p>The amount of exposure children have, thanks to the media and other technological developments, has led to several misconceptions. While at times, they may be lucky to have their doubts clarified by the right authorities, at other times, their information is a bit warped and this can lead to issues of discipline. Unfortunately, entertainment often exposes children to glorification of wrong deeds. This leads to misunderstandings among children who are of an impressionable age.</p>
<p>According to most studies, the best road take is <a href="http://umaine.edu/publications/4140e/" target="_blank">discipline by example</a>. Children tend to imitate what they see around them and the simplest way to get the job done is to behave the way you want them to.</p>
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		<title>Dealing with School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/dealing-with-school-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/dealing-with-school-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 May 2011 17:47:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Discipline]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=370</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#160; Image by Self-portrait Girl via Flickr There is no escaping it. For reasons that may sometimes be difficult to understand, school violence is prevalent. School violence has taken the lives or destroyed the futures of several youngsters as well as education providers. While many would like to point fingers at a faulty education system, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="zemanta-img" style="margin: 1em; float: right; display: block; width: 250px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/36176391@N07/4089225446"><img style="border: medium none; display: block;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2533/4089225446_84cf9cfb54_m.jpg" alt="Change Begins Here." width="240" height="240" /></a>&nbsp;</p>
<p class="zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/36176391@N07/4089225446">Self-portrait Girl</a> via Flickr</p>
</div>
<p>There is no escaping it. For reasons that may sometimes be difficult to understand, school violence is prevalent. School violence has taken the lives or destroyed the futures of several youngsters as well as education providers. While many would like to point fingers at a faulty education system, the fact is that the social environment, home atmosphere and the child’s own psychological makeup can be contributing factors. If one were to try to deal with this issue, it has to be on multiple levels – it is the responsibility of the school, parents, teachers, members of society and all who live together in a community.</p>
<p>Schools have taken several steps to help <a href="http://www.eduville.com/artman/publish/article_23.shtml" target="_blank">deal with school violence</a> in an effective manner. Teachers and education providers have to be sympathetic to students to a certain extent. They are at a volatile age and are undergoing many changes both physically and mentally. Life can be a series of turmoil for them and during school hours, it is up to the teachers to spot those that need some extra attention.</p>
<p>As parents, you must try to recognize violent tendencies in your child and address them. This does not mean just admonishing your child and forbidding them to do things. Rather, you should try to talk to them about what could possibly result in such violence. Anger management is not just for adults but for children as well.</p>
<p>For those who have already suffered the brutality of school violence, <a href="http://stress.about.com/od/copingwithcrisis/a/tragedy.htm" target="_blank">coping</a> is just as important too. This must be done personally with family members as well in school among staff and students.</p>
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		<title>The Power of School Boards</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-power-of-school-boards.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-power-of-school-boards.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 08 May 2011 17:47:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Board of education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=369</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[School boards are an important aspect of the education system. Rules, regulations, and administration of schools are decided at this level. This is also a singular means of allowing the public to get involved in the process of education and shaping the people of tomorrow. The decisions made at school board levels are those that [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>School boards are an important aspect of the education system. Rules, regulations, and administration of schools are decided at this level. This is also a singular means of allowing the public to get involved in the process of education and shaping the people of tomorrow. The decisions made at school board levels are those that influence the education policy at higher levels. These school boards have also played integral roles in shaping student testing means as well as graduation needs.</p>
<p>As far as the workings of school boards go, there are certain <a href="http://www.vtvsba.org/roles.htm" target="_blank">aspects</a> that are a given. All school boards have the responsibility of creating a vision for their school. This allows schools to have a better perspective going forward. Once this has been put in place, the next step would be to develop a mission for schools to work towards. This is where the beliefs and values of an educational institution can be developed.</p>
<p>These school boards also develop certain standards for each of the schools to function with. Schools can be tested on a regular basis to ensure that they live up to these expectations. It is how a certain level of accountability is placed on parents as well as educational institutions.</p>
<p>School boards also carry a responsibility towards ensuring that the area around a school and the culture in a school are well maintained. Considering the number of ethnic groups studying in schools today, keeping an eye on possible cultural influences is of vital importance. In order to be able to do all this and more, school boards are vested with <a href="http://www.answers.com/topic/school-boards-duties-responsibilities-decision-making-and-legal-basis-for-local-school-board-powers" target="_blank">legal and administrative powers</a> of several kinds.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Our Educational Priorities</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/our-educational-priorities.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/our-educational-priorities.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 28 Mar 2011 13:57:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Learning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=352</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As educators and school administrations struggle with decreasing funds, higher violence and myriad of social factors that influence the ability to provide a successful learning environment, many are forgetting to keep in focus what really matters. Teaching and modeling a love of learning will help students to be life time learners. If all of the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As educators and school administrations struggle with decreasing funds, higher violence and myriad of social factors that influence the ability to provide a successful learning environment, many are forgetting to keep in focus what really matters.</p>
<p>Teaching and modeling a love of learning will help students to be life time learners. If all of the focus is on the negative or how many sports events a school district has won, then those students who are in sports or causing trouble get overlooked.</p>
<p>The facts are what they are and they do have to be addressed, but at the same time an educational system that encourages the positive and works toward the betterment of everyone will be a successful educational experience for the students and faculity.</p>
<p>Could it be that with less you could potentially do more? Having groups of students who mentor and tutor struggling students could create an atmosphere among a larger group of students.</p>
<p>Physical education is important to the health and well being of everyone. But does a school really need the latest and greatest gym equipment?</p>
<p>What if students were taught the importance of growing food, while also receiving exercise, while also learning science, economics and green living at the same time.</p>
<p>There is more to art then sitting in a classroom drawing and by getting students and faculity excited about learning in a slightly bolder and broader thinking way, then students will experience the joy that really comes from learning.</p>
<p>More money may solve some of the problems of our schools but creative thinking will certainly open the doors of a student’s mind.</p>
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		<title>Rules that Work</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/rules-that-work.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/rules-that-work.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 24 Mar 2011 13:57:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Discipline]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teacher]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=351</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A safe educational environment is the ideal situation for students and faculty. But any time you have a group of people together, you need to have in place a well established set of standards, rules, and expectations for everyone at every level. Without guidelines people in general will gravitate to a comfort level that may [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A safe educational environment is the ideal situation for students and faculty. But any time you have a group of people together, you need to have in place a well established set of standards, rules, and expectations for everyone at every level.</p>
<p>Without guidelines people in general will gravitate to a comfort level that may not work for everyone.</p>
<p>Educational administrations need workable standards of performance set in place for the benefit of everyone including the students they are teaching. No one is should feel above reproach, but everyone should have someone they are ultimately accountable to.</p>
<p>This will help the educational system run in a manner that is beneficial for everyone.</p>
<p>Deciding upon a predetermined set of qualifications that will enable administration and faculty to create benchmarks to determine effectiveness and performance will help to establish a high quality of educators.</p>
<p>Students should feel they are being supported and protected within the learning environment and that they have resources if they do not feel safe. Students also need to be aware of the consequences for inappropriate behavior. Allowing for open communication and awareness of the potential for disciplinary action that they will incur will help to deter them from wrong behavior.</p>
<p>It is the obligation of the staff and administration to create an atmosphere of equality based on respect for a student to achieve educational success.</p>
<p>Going to school should not have to be filled with stress and fear but for many students that is exactly what happens at the beginning every school day for them.</p>
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		<title>B​ooks on School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/b%e2%80%8books-on-school-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/b%e2%80%8books-on-school-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 22 Mar 2011 07:58:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bullying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=307</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[B​ecause violence in public schools has become such a huge problem, it can be helpful for teachers and administrators to have a reading list handy on the subject. There have been a great deal of books published on the subject that deal with the causes, prevention tips and potential fallout of school violence. F​ear Versus [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="zw-12db9bba846squDOt338f19">B<span id="zw-12db9bbac04Ugvwhq338f19">​ecause violence in public schools has become such a huge problem, it can be helpful for teachers and administrators to have a reading list handy on the subject. There have been a great deal of books published on the subject that deal with the causes, prevention tips and potential fallout of school violence. </span> <br id="zw-12db9bba846-alQ4W338f19" /></p>
<p id="zw-12db9c344fbIvdp-C338f19">F<span id="zw-12db9c34894Qe7i1i338f19">​ear Versus Facts, by Dewey Cornell: A forensic psychologist discusses a number of myths identified from his work with children including those about bullying and armed violence. </span></p>
<p id="zw-12db9c4cdafRK8Fjm338f19">R<span id="zw-12db9c70374Ro9dd0338f19">​educing School Violence Through Conflict Resolution, by David Johnson and Roger Johnson: The authors of </span>this book go into great detail explaining what conflict is, how it happens and when it is necessary. They also explore a number of useful methods for resolving conflict before it escalates into violence.</p>
<p id="zw-12db9c8c867IpoxD338f19">S<span id="zw-12db9c92d43U6dJ6S338f19">​topping School Violence, by Derek Randel: This book mainly deals with bullying and is written for both parents and teachers. Randel also discusses several tools for victims of bullying to help bolster self-esteem and better understand the nature of problem. </span> <br id="zw-12db9c8c867qbYQSv338f19" /></p>
<p id="zw-12db9cab4cbF3B-4Z338f19">W<span id="zw-12db9cab895tGNDgg338f19">​e Need to Talk About Kevin, by Lionel Shriver: This novel explorers the mindset of a sociopathic young man and the efforts of his mother to understand and cope with him. Even though it is entirely fictional, the novel does provide readers and opportunity to look at the problem of school violence from the perspective of the bully&#8217;s parents, one of which is supportive while the other is in terror.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12db9ce9cf7XywurH338f19">D<span id="zw-12db9cf41a4ja8cFF338f19">​eadly Lessons &#8211; Understanding Lethal School Violence, by </span>N<span id="zw-12db9cfe3b5uk5QHO338f19">​ational Research Council: This book is composed of case studies and research results concerning school violence, both small and large scale. While the causes and results are thoroughly explored, the authors maintain that there is no one definitive reason behind school violence. </span><br id="zw-12db9ce9cf84HRbF338f19" /></p>
<p id="zw-12db9d1249bz963Gb338f19"><span id="zw-12db9d1249baCVsyB338f19">These titles should provide parents, teachers and administrators with a grasp of the causes of bullying and school violence, as well as provide some useful information for dealing with the problem. </span></p>
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		<title>Principals and Funding</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/principals-and-funding.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/principals-and-funding.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 20 Mar 2011 13:57:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Head teacher]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=350</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When a school is performing poorly and funds are needed to improve their struggling financial situation, the federal government seems to be offering a very tempting stimulus package they can apply for. But if your administration has teachers and principals that work hard and believe in the students and are an asset to your educational [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When a school is performing poorly and funds are needed to improve their struggling financial situation, the federal government seems to be offering a very tempting stimulus package they can apply for.</p>
<p>But if your administration has teachers and principals that work hard and believe in the students and are an asset to your educational system, you might what to look at this offering a little closer. Maybe local fund raising and bake sales would be a better way to increase the bottom line at many schools. Otherwise you could be choosing money over people.</p>
<p>The fact is there are rules that must be met in order to qualify for the educational stimulus money that the current federal government is hawking. It is truly a sad situation when schools that have very little funds who are trying to educate in usually depressed and socially challenged areas will have to remove teachers and principals in order to qualify for any of those government funds.</p>
<p>Exceptional teachers and principals are being let go, or assigned and receiving lower pay across our county in order for the their school district to qualify for the stimulus packages being offered.</p>
<p>Principal’s who have worked hard in making their schools successful and who really care about the education of their students are being tossed aside for more money.</p>
<p>It is disturbing to witness the effect and potential long term damage that could these educators may experience. Not only are their paychecks and self worth being damaged but the students they influence everyday will not receive the quality of care and education they once had.</p>
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		<title>Appropriate Discipline</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/appropriate-discipline.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/appropriate-discipline.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Mar 2011 13:57:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Discipline]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Learning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Types of educational institutions]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=349</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many times it can be difficult to assess and determine the appropriate discipline regarding and considering the individual students infraction. That is why it is necessary to have non-negotiable rules and expectations, but still keep in mind the individual situation. By having a set of guidelines and expectations in place that are clearly communicated to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Many times it can be difficult to assess and determine the appropriate discipline regarding and considering the individual students infraction. That is why it is necessary to have non-negotiable rules and expectations, but still keep in mind the individual situation.</p>
<p>By having a set of guidelines and expectations in place that are clearly communicated to faculty and students will be helpful and necessary to achieving a well organized learning institution.</p>
<p>But there will be times when the gray area occurs and must be looked at through the lens of the person’s overall behavior and current situation.</p>
<p>A typically good student who has a sudden change in personality and behavior could be experiencing health or home stresses that are affecting their performance and situation.</p>
<p>If there is an extreme reaction it could create a worsened situation for the student who is struggling with other circumstances. An atmosphere of open communication and sincere concern will help a student to feel comfortable enough to talk about the issues that are bothering them and this could lead to a potential solution that will enable the student to make better choices in the future.</p>
<p>Appropriate discipline for the continual troublemaker needs markers of progression and increased consequences.</p>
<p>When the atmosphere of the educational institution is jeopardized by students who are not interested in learning it creates chaos and dissension that spreads throughout the school and ultimately discourages those who are there to learn.</p>
<p>Quick and effective action on the part of faculty and administration is important to create a calm atmosphere and setting the tone of the school and or learning institution.</p>
<p>A well organized school that has instilled the proper expectations and guidelines will be able to deal with the many different levels and situations that occur within a day among a large or small group of people who are working closely together.</p>
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		<title>A Principal Responsibility</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/a-principal-responsibility.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/a-principal-responsibility.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 07 Mar 2011 13:57:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bullying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Head teacher]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=347</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As the leadership of the school goes so goes the school, could be an accurate statement as to the importance of the position held as that of principal of an educational institution. School violence is not a rare occurrence any longer and must be an issue that is addressed early and at every level of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As the leadership of the school goes so goes the school, could be an accurate statement as to the importance of the position held as that of principal of an educational institution.</p>
<p>School violence is not a rare occurrence any longer and must be an issue that is addressed early and at every level of grade within the educational system.</p>
<p>Being concerned, attentive and taking the pulse daily of the school is a necessary part of the duties of well connected principal.</p>
<p>Understanding the socio-economic structure of the community will help the principal in their ability to assess the potential for violence within their schools but cannot be taken as a sole indicator of it.</p>
<p>Violence in schools is and should be a concern of that of every educational institution where there is evidence of students being continually bullied.</p>
<p>Some children are singled out early on and bullied; this should be of concern and helped deal with the situation before the escalation of feelings become irreversible.</p>
<p>The initiation of hotlines is a tool and resource of information for a principal and can help diffuse potential problems.</p>
<p>Providing student programs that encourage talking and opportunities for expressing their emotions, issues and situations is a step in the right direction.</p>
<p>The responsibility of a principal as the leadership of the educational institution is not one of warden but of educator and example. But with the changing and sometimes volatile world we live in a principal’s responsibility is that of accountability where the safety of the children are concerned.</p>
<p>Addressing specific issues quickly and effectively will be an important factor in keeping the environment of the school one of a safe place. Staying in touch with faculty and listening closely to the students will help the principal to provide the strong leadership.</p>
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		<title>How Teachers Can Help to Stop Bullying</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/how-teachers-can-help-to-stop-bullying.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/how-teachers-can-help-to-stop-bullying.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 23 Feb 2011 11:07:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teachers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bullying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teacher]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=321</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Often, a teacher has more contact with a child than anyone else in the school or even the child’s parents. Because of this, teachers can play a large part in helping to stop bullying behaviors. In some respects, it may seem unfair that a teacher should have to address this type of issue on top [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Often, a teacher has more contact with a child than anyone else in the school or even the child’s parents. Because of this, teachers can play a large part in helping to stop bullying behaviors. In some respects, it may seem unfair that a teacher should have to address this type of issue on top of everything else she is doing. Teaching classes and making sure that children are ready for standardized tests is a large enough load. Adding a counseling component to the job may seem like overkill. Still, there are things that teachers can do to keep a classroom bully from gaining power.</p>
<p>Treat Everyone Equally and With Respect</p>
<p>Children who are bullied often share similar traits. They do not defend themselves. They may be shy or smaller in size. It may also be that they do have characteristics that other children might consider unattractive or odd. The role of the teacher in the classroom is to treat everyone equally. A teacher who bullies an odd child sets a precedent that someone who doesn’t fit in should be dealt with aggressively. By treating all students with an equal amount of respect, the teacher sets the standard in the classroom that aggressive behaviors will not be tolerated.</p>
<p>Address Bullying Problems Immediately</p>
<p>Teachers can sometimes be so overwhelmed with their responsibilities that they overlook certain bullying behaviors. Allowing an aggressive child to continuously make fun of another child in the classroom only perpetuates the behavior. Some children with bullying tendencies might be attractive or funny and have followers. Other children may laugh at their jokes because they do not want to be the next victim. The task of the teacher in these situations is to curb the behavior early on. Those who bully lack empathy and need to learn this quality. Sending a bullying child to the school counselor right away is one way to keep the problem from snowballing.</p>
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		<title>The Effects of Property Management on School Systems</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-effects-of-property-management-on-school-systems.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-effects-of-property-management-on-school-systems.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Feb 2011 16:59:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property Management]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=239</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A city’s property management strategy often has a significant impact on how well its school system functions. Without a good property management strategy, school systems can become divided and ineffective. The Effects of Improper Property Management Ineffective property management can lead to inequality in a town. Some areas become known for poverty and crime while [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A city’s property management strategy often has a significant impact on how well its <a href="http://www.pbs.org/closingtheachievementgap/faq.html">school system</a> functions. Without a good property management strategy, school systems can become divided and ineffective.</p>
<p>The Effects of Improper Property Management</p>
<p>Ineffective property management can lead to inequality in a town. Some areas become known for poverty and crime while others become known for wealth and safety. Poor management can also cause urban sprawl, which makes it difficult for residents to move about the city efficiently. It can also cause <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_flight">white flight</a> by encouraging affluent families to leave certain areas so that they can relocate in gated communities. As these problems become more pervasive, schools become segregated with poor minorities attending schools that do not receive much funding and white, affluent students attending schools that give them better opportunities to succeed.</p>
<p>The Effects of Improved Property Management</p>
<p>Schools serve their communities best property is managed well. Instead of letting white flight leave behind empty houses that quickly fall into disrepair, a <a href="http://www.allpropertymanagement.com/search/california/long-beach-property-management-companies.html">Long Beach property management</a> firm can make sure that the buildings stay in good shape. This encourages new residents to move into the empty homes.</p>
<p>Good property management also encourages people from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities to live in the same area. This increases diversity within the schools and creates more opportunities for minorities and poor students to thrive.</p>
<p>As schools improve from effective property management, better opportunities are created for teachers that want to devote themselves to teaching children from all types of backgrounds. This, in turn, gives better options to individual students and creates a better educational system overall.</p>
<p>Taking Advantage of Good Property Management</p>
<p>It isn’t always easy for cities to implement good property management techniques. Without them, though, they often continue to struggle with unemployment, poverty and crime. Taking a rational approach to property management could offer so many benefits to residents throughout the city that it is worth going through the initial growing pains.</p>
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		<title>Classroom Discipline and Cultural Differences</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/classroom-discipline-and-cultural-differences.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/classroom-discipline-and-cultural-differences.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Feb 2011 11:07:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Discipline]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Classroom]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diversity training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=320</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Teaching a class comprised of students from many different cultures can be a challenge for a teacher. Not all cultures communicate or address conflict the same way. In some cultures, loudly and aggressively reprimanding a child is considered normal. In other cultures, the behavior of children is corrected through subtle suggestions and even mild teasing. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Teaching a class comprised of students from many different cultures can be a challenge for a teacher. Not all cultures communicate or address conflict the same way. In some cultures, loudly and aggressively reprimanding a child is considered normal. In other cultures, the behavior of children is corrected through subtle suggestions and even mild teasing. For a teacher who is addressing a culturally diverse group of students, understanding these differences can make for a more manageable classroom.</p>
<p>Understanding Cultural Differences in the Classroom</p>
<p>In societies where people are all from the same culture, cultural sensitivity is a given. The norms are understood and agreed upon. However, in other societies where in a single classroom a teacher may be working with students of a dozen different nationalities and ethnicities, classroom management requires greater sensitivity to and understanding of individual cultures. When a teacher doesn’t make an effort to do this, his or her effectiveness as a disciplinarian can be greatly reduced. In these cases, possibilities for misunderstandings are also increased.</p>
<p>Diversity Training to Increase Order in the Classroom</p>
<p>Providing diversity training to teachers and administrators is an important part of creating order in the classroom and in the school. A teacher from a homogenous area who has moved to a more diverse inner city to teach might find herself unaccustomed to certain modes of communication. She might find that children are loud or more talkative than they were in her old area. Some of this has cultural roots and when a teacher does not know this, she might draw unfair assumptions about her students. Making sure that teachers have a solid understanding of the cultural backgrounds of their students helps to eliminate judgments and misunderstandings.</p>
<p>Developing cultural sensitivity, in general, is an important skill for teachers and administrators. When they show an appreciation and respect for various cultures, they set a good example for their students.</p>
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		<title>Crowd Sourcing for Volunteer Hours</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/crowd-sourcing-for-volunteer-hours.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/crowd-sourcing-for-volunteer-hours.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 11 Feb 2011 10:44:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Discipline]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Crowdsourcing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Freelancer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Volunteering]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=232</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many schools today are requiring their students to give back in some way. Whether your school requires a set number of volunteer hours to be put in before graduation, or it is only highly recommended that a student give back to the community, there are many ways that the students themselves may choose to help [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="zemanta-img" style="margin: 1em; display: block;">
<div class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 108px"><a href="http://www.daylife.com/image/06Fx50m6Teeac?utm_source=zemanta&amp;utm_medium=p&amp;utm_content=06Fx50m6Teeac&amp;utm_campaign=z1"><img title="CHICAGO - SEPTEMBER 10:  Seventy-three-year-ol..." src="http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/06Fx50m6Teeac/98x150.jpg" alt="CHICAGO - SEPTEMBER 10:  Seventy-three-year-ol..." width="98" height="150" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Image by Getty Images via @daylife</p></div>
</div>
<p>Many schools today are requiring their students to give back in some way. Whether your school requires a set number of volunteer hours to be put in before graduation, or it is only highly recommended that a student give back to the community, there are many ways that the students themselves may choose to help others in need. In the past, this was mostly done in person, at a shelter or other community service center. Today, though, students can even go online to <a href="http://mashable.com/2010/06/21/crowdsource-funds-causes-startups/">help others in need</a>.</p>
<p>There are many options to raise money to help people. With a <a href="http://www.microgiving.com/">micro charity</a>, your students can set up a profile on a website that does crowd sourcing and raise money for the charity that they want to support. In some cases, this may be a well known charity, but in others, it may be that they choose to raise money for a specific charitable project that they want to do.</p>
<p>When you are choosing to allow this type of volunteer work and charity fundraising, you may want to set some boundaries with your students and teachers. Make it clear what will and will not count, how many hours each part of their project will count for, or whether they need to raise money for a traditional charity or a new project. No matter what rules you set in place, you will find that the students in your school are much more likely to give back with micro funding, rather than with traditional volunteering. With traditional volunteering, your students may not have the resources to do what they want to help out. With <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crowdsourcing">crowd sourcing</a>, they will not need to find a ride, or give hours at a time. This gives them much more freedom to help others and give back to the community.</p>
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		<title>The Steps Involved in Becoming an Educational Administrator</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-steps-involved-in-becoming-an-educational-administrator.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-steps-involved-in-becoming-an-educational-administrator.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Feb 2011 11:07:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Discipline]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Master's degree]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=319</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Educational administrators work in a variety of positions. They can become school principals, develop and evaluate curriculum for schools, or work for school boards administering and assessing educational programs. Becoming an administrator in an educational environment requires dedication and the completion of several requirements. First Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree In almost all cases, educational administrators [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Educational administrators work in a variety of positions. They can become school principals, develop and evaluate curriculum for schools, or work for school boards administering and assessing educational programs. Becoming an administrator in an educational environment requires dedication and the completion of several requirements.</p>
<p>First Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree</p>
<p>In almost all cases, educational administrators must first earn a bachelor’s degree to take on leadership roles in schools, colleges and universities. Majoring in education is a logical first step. However, you can study other topics for your bachelor’s degree and still become an educational administrator.</p>
<p>Get Teaching Experience</p>
<p>In many cases, teaching experience is first required before you can go on to become a school administrator. This type of experience is valuable for making you a stronger administrator. You will generally need a teaching certificate and, in many cases, a master’s degree. If you know that you definitely want to become a school administrator, focus on educational administration at the graduate level.</p>
<p>Gain Experience as an Administrator</p>
<p>To be a good educational administrator, you must develop leadership qualities. Although these qualities are innate in some people, most people need practice before they can effectively lead others. If you take the teaching route, ask the administrator of your school if you can serve on committees or serve in other leadership and administrative roles. Also, choose a graduate program in educational administration that has a hands-on approach and is well-connected with local school programs where you can gain important experience.</p>
<p>Look for Jobs as an Educational Administrator</p>
<p>If you have taught for several years, have a master’s degree and have taken on leadership roles, it’s time to pursue your ambition of becoming an administrator. Look for job opportunities in your community, nearby cities, and network as much as possible. Ask your school principal and other school administrators if they know of positions that would be a good fit for you.</p>
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		<title>The Role of Educational Administrators in Online Learning</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-role-of-educational-administrators-in-online-learning.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-role-of-educational-administrators-in-online-learning.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Feb 2011 11:07:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Learning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=318</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Online learning is becoming an increasingly viable way for students to meet their learning needs. In some cases, studying online is more cost-effective for learners. A good online program pays close attention to the administrative aspects of delivering information and assessing student needs. An educational administrator plays a large role in ensuring that students are [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Online learning is becoming an increasingly viable way for students to meet their learning needs. In some cases, studying online is more cost-effective for learners. A good online program pays close attention to the administrative aspects of delivering information and assessing student needs. An educational administrator plays a large role in ensuring that students are learning and the teaching system is truly effective.</p>
<p>Delivering a User-Friendly Platform</p>
<p>The role of students is to learn and teachers are tasked with teaching. Educational administrators in online learning environments have as their roles the responsibility of ensuring that all learning obstacles are eliminated. Choosing a user-friendly platform is an important role of educational administrators. A quality administrator will become familiar with a variety of online learning tools and choose the ones that ensure ease of use and clarity of communication.</p>
<p>Evaluating Programs and Processes</p>
<p>An educational administrator who is overseeing an online learning program must regularly evaluate the educational program and the effectiveness of the process for teachers and students. Are the students learning and excelling in the program? If not, are there programmatic or process changes that can be made to make sure they can get the most out of the learning environment? It may be that the program or mode of delivery is too stale or dull, leaving students bored and uninspired. A quality administrator can do his part to introduce new components into the program to increase learner enthusiasm.</p>
<p>Facilitating Communication Between Students and Teachers</p>
<p>Another role of an educational administrator in online learning is to make sure that sufficient communication is taking place between teachers and students. An administrator sometimes needs to step in to resolve any complaints or disagreements between students and teachers. In some cases, administrators also step in to clarify the roles and responsibilities of both teachers and students. In the event of online platform malfunctions, administrators are generally responsible for resolving matters.</p>
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		<title>Coping Strategies for Educational Administrators</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/coping-strategies-for-educational-administrators.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/coping-strategies-for-educational-administrators.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 03 Feb 2011 11:07:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teachers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Board of education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Coping strategies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teacher]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=322</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Working as an educational administrator is no easy task. Keeping a school running smoothly can create intense stress for even the most competent administrators. Demands from the school board, parents, teachers and students can sometimes mount to uncontrollable levels. You want to address the most essential issues on a regular basis. Here are a few [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Working as an educational administrator is no easy task. Keeping a school running smoothly can create intense stress for even the most competent administrators. Demands from the school board, parents, teachers and students can sometimes mount to uncontrollable levels. You want to address the most essential issues on a regular basis. Here are a few coping strategies for managing the stresses of your job.</p>
<p>Prioritize Your Tasks</p>
<p>The ability to be organized and prioritize your tasks on a day-to-day basis is of the utmost importance.  On any given day, you may have to deal with complaints from parents, safety hazards in the school environment, student disciplinary issues and urgent questions from teachers. Some leaders struggle with trying to meet everyone’s needs at the same time. In many cases, this is not possible.</p>
<p>You have to strengthen your powers of discernment to know which tasks require your attention at any given moment. A parent’s plea for your attention may have to be sidelined as you deal with a more pressing issue that impacts the entire student body. Get in the habit of asking yourself on a regular basis whether the task you are focused on is truly a priority.</p>
<p>Delegate to Competent Individuals</p>
<p>Tasks that are not a priority can often be delegated. Identify staff members in the school who can help you. The school secretary may actually be an excellent problem solver. Consider assigning her more responsibilities in filtering student demands and teacher requests. Some school teachers may have aspirations to eventually become administrators. Empower them by delegating administrative tasks to help them build their skill sets.</p>
<p>Take Time Out</p>
<p>Even with prioritizing and delegating, stress can sometimes be unavoidable in educational settings. Be sure to take lunch breaks and vacations to help you recover. A relaxed administrator can often be much more effective than someone who is badly in need of a vacation.</p>
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		<title>Classroom Management Strategies for New Teachers</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/classroom-management-strategies-for-new-teachers.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/classroom-management-strategies-for-new-teachers.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Feb 2011 11:06:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teachers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Classroom]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teacher]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=317</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Managing a classroom can be one of the most difficult challenges for new teachers. This aspect of teaching requires a great deal of practice. It’s possible for a teacher to be highly competent in his subject matter and creative in his teaching style, but not terribly skilled in managing a classroom. To effectively teach students, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Managing a classroom can be one of the most difficult challenges for new teachers. This aspect of teaching requires a great deal of practice. It’s possible for a teacher to be highly competent in his subject matter and creative in his teaching style, but not terribly skilled in managing a classroom. To effectively teach students, a teacher must first have everyone’s attention.</p>
<p>Doing Away with the Desire to be Liked</p>
<p>One of the more common challenges for new teachers is the desire to be liked by students. It’s a natural human need that is difficult to meet in educational settings. Not every student in the classroom will like the teacher. Some students have their own issues and hang-ups; they may resent authority or have emotional issues that interfere with having healthy human relationships. These types of issues can be problematic for a new teacher who is eager to please. New teachers should go into learning environments with the mission to keep the order, deliver information and draw out students’ capabilities. Whether a teacher ends up being popular with his students should not be a concern.</p>
<p>Establishing the Rules from Day One</p>
<p>The first day of school is difficult for any brand new teacher. There are only so many things that a teacher can prepare for in advance. Issues will come up that have never been encountered. Decisions will have to be made in each and every moment. One way to eliminate classroom disorder is to clarify the rules and express them on day one. Behavioral expectations in the classroom should be explained verbally and posted in writing. For example, small children should know where to line up for lunch and where to place their belongings as soon as they enter the class. Explaining these expectations at the outset will eliminate the need to voice the instructions repeatedly or to reprimand students.</p>
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		<title>Who Decides on School Policies</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/who-decides-on-school-policies.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/who-decides-on-school-policies.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 25 Jan 2011 04:24:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=315</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many parents, and even some teachers, are unsure how the policies and procedures in their schools came to be. The short answer is that local or state school boards have the final say on what schools can and cannot enact in the way of policy, but there is a process by which this happens. The [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="zw-12dbe7ac2d7NTmDIh338f19"><span id="zw-12dbe7ac2d7lCNutM338f19">Many parents, and even some teachers, are unsure how the policies and procedures in their schools came to be. The short answer is that local or state school boards have the final say on what schools can and cannot enact in the way of policy, but there is a process by which this happens. The school board is typically a committee of elected officials who focus on what should and should not happen within their specific school district. The board is usually led by a superintendent who functions like the CEO of a corporation. In short, the school board decides what should happen, while the superintendent decides how it should be accomplished.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12dbe8088c6KWjppz338f19"><span id="zw-12dbe8088c6iJFeZv338f19">School boards and superintendents typically work together to determine a school calendar, programs of study, appropriate text books for each class, and how many teachers they will need to employ. They may also set salaries and benefits for the teachers and staff of the schools in their district. Changes to policy in schools usually need to be brought before the school board, either at a scheduled or emergency meeting, where the members can review the facts and request and then vote their decision.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12dbe823489YrhlMc338f19"><span id="zw-12dbe823489_hjDOo338f19">Of course, all school boards are held the laws of both their relevant state and the federal government, meaning that they cannot enact rules that are in contradiction to state or federal laws. This sometimes becomes a problem when the school encounters a situation not previously seen, but that can only be solved by finding an exception to the law in question. In these instances, members of the board will typically contact the state legislators to inform them of the problem, and then try to work together in order to fashion a solution acceptable to all parties involved. The solution is then brought up in local or state elections as a referendum or proposition. </span></p>
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		<title>The Law and School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-law-and-school-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-law-and-school-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 23 Jan 2011 11:52:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=313</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Teachers and parents today have similar goals in the education of our nations children, and they also have many of the same concerns. Recent studies have shown that when asked, most parents will say that discipline is their biggest concern in the public school system. When that answer is investigated, it appears to be a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="zw-12dbe6e1077NPQEQ338f19"><span id="zw-12dbe6e1077uxg5je338f19">Teachers and parents today have similar goals in the education of our nations children, and they also have many of the same concerns. Recent studies have shown that when asked, most parents will say that discipline is their biggest concern in the public school system. When that answer is investigated, it appears to be a lack of discipline, rather than the type or severity of punishment that is most troubling. Unfortunately, a number of state and federal laws have been enacted to seriously limit a school&#8217;s power in dealing with troubled children. This has caused a number of changes in the way that administrators can enforce and even enact policies concerning appropriate and safe behavior.<br />
</span></p>
<p id="zw-12dbe701d0aTA8_JQ338f19"><span id="zw-12dbe708c55Z_oNrJ338f19">One of the most important of these laws is the </span>Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1975<span id="zw-12dbe70a055SKsgrE338f19">​. This law ensures that all students should have access to a free and appropriate education, and was originally intended to support students with physical disabilities like loss of hearing or sight. However, the meaning of the word &#8220;disability&#8221; has been greatly expanded in the last four decades to include those with learning, mental and emotional disabilities. For this reason, schools are unable to cull emotionally troubled children from the general population. This has resulted in schools that are much more unruly, much less controlled and much less safe for all children.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12dbe74af04WnTOMV338f19"><span id="zw-12dbe74af050y4Ggu338f19">Federal Supreme Court decision such as Tinker vs. Des Moines School District have also had a huge impact on how schools can and cannot handle difficult children. Because the court ruled that neither teachers nor students surrender their Constitutional rights to free speech upon entering school grounds, children are now able to get away with much more in the way of disrespectful and disruptive speech and actions. These changes in the way that school administrators can handle their students have caused many more problems than they could have ever hoped to solve. </span></p>
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		<title>S​chool Responsibility for Student Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/s%e2%80%8bchool-responsibility-for-student-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/s%e2%80%8bchool-responsibility-for-student-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 Jan 2011 14:48:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=311</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When troubled children are the perpetrators of violence on public school property, who is responsible? That is the question that has been at the heart of a number of incidents in recent years. Unfortunately, there is rarely a clear answer. Teachers and administrators undoubtedly have a responsibility to ensure that public schools are safe and conducive [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="zw-12dbe64db87T0RPld338f19"><span id="zw-12dbe64db87Gq46IM338f19">When troubled children are the perpetrators of violence on public school property, who is responsible? That is the question that has been at the heart of a number of incidents in recent years. Unfortunately, there is rarely a clear answer. Teachers and administrators undoubtedly have a responsibility to ensure that public schools are safe and conducive to effective learning, but just how far they can go to achieve those goals is not so clear. Because of certain state and federal laws, and specific policies in school districts, many administrators are unable to enact procedures to remove problem students from their institutions.<br />
</span></p>
<p id="zw-12dbe676b4aguXEn7338f19"><span id="zw-12dbe676b4a8SQaDm338f19">With this in mind, it is important for all teachers and public school administrators to understand their own responsibilities in the issue. When a student is believed to be emotionally or mentally troubled, exhibits dangerous behavior or has an attitude reflecting the possibility of that behavior, teachers have a responsibility to report the situation to their supervisors and also to the parents of the children in question. Administrators must then make the call on when use disciplinary tools like in- or out-of-school suspension or expulsion. They must also work closely with teachers in order to determine when the appropriate law enforcement officials should be brought in. </span></p>
<p id="zw-12dbe6a80e8AuxdkO338f19"><span id="zw-12dbe6a80e8_XkNx3338f19">The best thing that those working within the American public school system can do to fulfill their responsibilities in the realm of student violence is to be aware of what is going on with all of their students. Who is being picked on? Who is suddenly showing a change in attitude or mood? Which students do the other seem to be avoiding, or be afraid of? Because so much of school violence is foreseeable, the answers to these questions can help point teachers in the right direction and hopefully head off any violent behaviors before they are even exhibited. </span></p>
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		<title>Classroom Management Tips</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/classroom-management-tips.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/classroom-management-tips.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 18 Jan 2011 01:31:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=309</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Taking control of 30 or more young children in a small confined space is a daunting task for any person; having to also engage these children and facilitate their learning may be considered a gargantuan task. However, this is the fate of nearly every American public school teacher. Luckily, there are a number of useful [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="zw-12db9d37a5bsORf9q338f19"><span id="zw-12db9d37a5bHZOAr_338f19">Taking control of 30 or more young children in a small confined space is a daunting task for any person; having to also engage these children and facilitate their learning may be considered a gargantuan task. However, this is the fate of nearly every American public school teacher. Luckily, there are a number of useful tips that one can apply to managing a classroom successfully, without losing either temper or sanity.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12db9d52eb6soLWaP338f19"><span id="zw-12db9d52eb6ZVOYCl338f19">Consistency is key in dealing with children for parents and educators alike. Children should be taught from the earliest opportunity what is expected of them and what repercussions they can expect for deviating from the advertised appropriate behavior. Teachers should make sure to also apply the same rules and guidelines, every day and to every student, with minimal allowances for extenuating circumstances. Of course, the same amount of attention should be given to exhibitions of good behavior. Children who provide the desired results should be praised often; this will both solidify the experience for the child in question, and also give an example to all other children at the same time.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12db9d887d95zjfW338f19"><span id="zw-12db9d887d9SgrErS338f19">Teachers who set a predetermined routine seem to have the most success in classroom management. When children know that they can rely on having time to work in groups, work alone and socialize, they are better able to deal with each part of their day. Rewards and incentives will also go a long way toward motivating your students. People are conditioned to work toward goals and avoid bad consequences; offering your students a clear explanation of both will help smooth out any questionable areas in their behavior. Finally, a positive attitude and a sense of humor on your part is essential for maintaining control of a large group of children. Being able to roll with the punches and deal with the unexpected is a skill that you will need to develop, and as quickly as possible for the best results.</span></p>
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		<title>Types of School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/types-of-school-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/types-of-school-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 15 Jan 2011 11:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=304</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The thought of violence in the American Public School system usually brings to mind images of Columbine or the Virginia Tech massacre, however, large scale murderers are not the only &#8211; even the most likely &#8211; perpetrators of violence in schools. There are a number of different types of violence in schools, ranging in severity [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="zw-12db9b01508AgrXmy338f19"><span id="zw-12db9b01508gKYmGd338f19">The thought of violence in the American Public School system usually brings to mind images of Columbine or the Virginia Tech massacre, however, large scale murderers are not the only &#8211; even the most likely &#8211; perpetrators of violence in schools. There are a number of different types of violence in schools, ranging in severity and with very different motivations. One of the simplest types of school violence is in ordinary bullying. Bullies will typically single out victims that they perceive to be weak and easy targets. Their primary motivation in this type of behavior is to create both a feeling and an external perception of power. For instance, picking on one small, weak child may cause the entire class to fear them. Sometimes bullying is done as a group. This type of intimidation is usually so that the bullies can feel superior to individuals or other groups of children.<br />
</span></p>
<p id="zw-12db9b4505bsg-tg338f19"><span id="zw-12db9b4505bd5p-FY338f19">Of course, not all school violence is committed by students. Teachers, staff members and administrators have been found guilty of violent behavior, either toward students or other adults. Unfortunately, these instances are not as often publicized as those between students. Many children are also unlikely to report violence at the hands of an adult, making it much more difficult to curtail that behavior and get help for the victim in question.<br />
</span></p>
<p id="zw-12db9b71e1a9nQkJV338f19">F<span id="zw-12db9b72234vaSLn338f19">​inally sexual assault, abuse or <span>harassment</span> may also been seen as a type of school violence. When this occurs between peers it is horrible enough, but when a child is the victim of sexual violence at the hands of an adult, if becomes an extremely difficult problem. Not only will the child fear reprisal, but because children are advised to tell a parent, teacher or clergy member when they are abused, he or she will also be effectively cut off from one of the best sources of help. </span></p>
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		<title>Modern Disciplinary Policies in Public Schools</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/modern-disciplinary-policies-in-public-schools.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/modern-disciplinary-policies-in-public-schools.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 13 Jan 2011 01:42:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Discipline]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=299</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In recent decades, there have been a number of changes to the policies and procedures that public schools institute for disciplinary problems. Long gone are the days when teachers and principals could use corporal punishment. While most parents wholeheartedly approve the restriction, others believe that lax discipline in schools only makes their own job as [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="zw-12dae9c4803K7A5nr338f19"><span id="zw-12dae9c4804jx5_Ep338f19">In recent decades, there have been a number of changes to the policies and procedures that public schools institute for disciplinary problems. Long gone are the days when teachers and principals could use corporal punishment. While most parents wholeheartedly approve the restriction, others believe that lax discipline in schools only makes their own job as disciplinarians at home even more difficult. The converse mode of thought is that the discipline of children should be solely the parents&#8217; job, and responsibility for such should never be placed on others.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12dae9f3b5eW_Khfy338f19"><span id="zw-12dae9f3b5e6NNlrT338f19">Some of the more recent modes of school discipline involve strategies that attempt to determine the cause behind a child&#8217;s behavior. This is often given more attention that the punishment for infractions. Policies that involve disciplinary councils made up of school counselors, administrators, teachers, parents and even representatives of the student body itself may be particularly effective. In the best disciplinary policies, students are asked to sign a statement of commitment that they have read and understand the rules on what is and is not acceptable behavior. By this method, there is no confusion on when the rules have been broken and the student in question has committed behavior outside of the established policy. </span></p>
<p id="zw-12daea4f049x40A0k338f19"><span id="zw-12daea4f0498lyRv338f19">The disciplinary plans that have shown to be ineffective are those that limit the involvement of the student and do not bring the parents&#8217; attention to the problem. The policies only reinforce poor behavior and there is little benefit. Regardless of the specific methods in place, it is clear that we must continue to place importance on requiring students to accept responsibility for their own actions. Accountability is an important quality that must be stringently adhered to for any disciplinary plan to work. Only by encouraging our youth to be involved in their own disciplinary programs can we expect to see success. </span></p>
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		<title>School Policies on Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-policies-on-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-policies-on-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 11 Jan 2011 10:18:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=297</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Creating a policy on violence is one of the most demanding duties a school administrator may encounter during his or her tenure. Because of high-profile events like those at Columbine in 1999, Santana High in 2001, and the Virginia Tech massacre in 2007, having a defined set of procedures and policies in place for acts [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="zw-12da44e97b9A1wge338f19"><span id="zw-12da44e97b9OnImI6338f19">Creating a policy on violence is one of the most demanding duties a school administrator may encounter during his or her tenure. Because of high-profile events like those at Columbine in 1999, Santana High in 2001, and the Virginia Tech massacre in 2007, having a defined set of procedures and policies in place for acts of violence is essential. One of the most important policies that a school should institute is the training of teachers and administrators to recognize signs of impending violent acts by students. Experts now believe that most perpetrators of school violence planned their actions in great detail, and that many of these students had suffered from depression and  lack of anger management. The students were also more likely to have been victims of violence at home or peer bullying.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12da46261bb2pjL-8338f19"><span id="zw-12da46261bbujmi8338f19">It is imperative that schools take any and all acts and threats of violence seriously. In addition, the topic should be broached often and students should be encouraged to report violence and threats without fear of repercussion. Administrators should make it clear that any property brought onto the school grounds is subject to search and seizure, and that weapons and toy replicas were strictly forbidden. This should include lockers, backpacks, and vehicles driven to the school and parked on school lots.<br />
</span></p>
<p id="zw-12da464adcc7KHCk1338f19"><span id="zw-12da464adccHtN6f338f19">Policies for dealing with students who exhibit a tendency for violence should include not only those that protect the student body at large, but also help for the offending teen. Suspension and expulsion may prevent violent acts from one individual within one school, but neglecting to address the larger problems that violent kids are experiencing is a mistake that could have dire consequences. Close communication with teachers, parents and counselors, along with the students, can help to prevent school violence and identify those who are at risk of committing violent acts. </span></p>
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		<title>Is It Bullying or a Hate Crime?</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/is-it-bullying-or-a-hate-crime.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/is-it-bullying-or-a-hate-crime.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 08 Jan 2011 05:37:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=295</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[W​hile the short-term effects for victims are largely the same, there is often a difference in the motivation behind violent youths. While some may argue it is human nature to be afraid or distrustful of those who are different, there is little reason for this behavior to be tolerated in our schools. While many kids [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="zw-12da426f588zDDjsw338f19">W<span id="zw-12da42b3011fxWpQQ338f19">​hile the short-term effects for victims are largely the same, there is often a difference in the motivation behind violent youths. While some may argue it is human nature to be afraid or distrustful of those who are different, there is little reason for this behavior to be tolerated in our schools. While many kids who are guilty of bullying grow up to be well-adjusted members of society, those who are guilty of hate crimes may only get worse. The reason for this is that for the most part, hate crimes are about identifying characteristics over which people have no control. For instance, crimes perpetuated on those because of their gender, race, skin color or sexual preference are thought of as hate crimes, whereas the same types of behavior toward those deemed &#8220;uncool,&#8221; &#8220;weird,&#8221; or just unpopular are just old-fashioned bullying. Understanding the difference can help combat both types of student violence.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12da430b4193fHjkt338f19">D<span id="zw-12da4314a864S65SC338f19">​iversity should be made a frequent topic of discussion in schools, especially in those where the population may not be as even dispersed between races. Stereotypical and prejudicial remarks should never be tolerated and teachers should take immediate steps to address that type of behavior in their students. In addition, teachers should avoid forcing students to interact with others while unsupervised. This is often the first step in targeting their victims for bullies. When students are required to work with others outside of their own social groups, it should always be with frequent teacher involvement. This will work to ensure that children are more accepting of those who appear to be different, as well as teaching them that avoiding others is not an option in a progressive society.</span><br id="zw-12da430b419Aed14338f19" /></p>
<p id="zw-12da435f462-bY1rZ338f19"><span id="zw-12da43612aaFa-q_4338f19">​Although hate crimes and bullying may often have the same result, understanding the difference in the motivation may help to combat both types of school violence. Also, it should be understood that under most states&#8217; laws, the punishment for hate crimes is much more severe.</span></p>
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		<title>What Teachers Can Do to Prevent School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/what-teachers-can-do-to-prevent-school-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/what-teachers-can-do-to-prevent-school-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 06 Jan 2011 01:52:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=293</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Educators and administrators often are the first to see the signs of violent tendencies in our children. Because they have the opportunity to observe kids when they are interacting with their peers, they have the best insight into their typical behaviors and traits. For these reasons, there is much that teachers can do to help [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="zw-12da4183377rfnKSF338f19"><span id="zw-12da4183377YTVMMD338f19">Educators and administrators often are the first to see the signs of violent tendencies in our children. Because they have the opportunity to observe kids when they are interacting with their peers, they have the best insight into their typical behaviors and traits. For these reasons, there is much that teachers can do to help prevent violence in our schools. The first and most important thing that teachers can do is to watch for the signs. Kids who become violent often begin by showing signs of depression. They may have trouble dealing with frustration or be unable to control their anger. Any work produced by a child with a theme of death, depression, or violence should be taken seriously and immediately discussed with the parents and the school&#8217;s counselor. </span></p>
<p id="zw-12da41c818f2pCgcR338f19"><span id="zw-12da41c818fNkr25E338f19">Teachers can also help to prevent school violence by making it the topic of conversation whenever discussing current events. By introducing the topic, teachers are reassuring children that they are aware bullying happens. They can express their lack of tolerance for violent behavior and let the kids know that they can always speak to a teacher, counselor or administrator about any concerns they may have. If a teacher hears a child make a prejudicial or stereotypical remark, he or she should immediately address the issue and help the students understand why the statement could be hurtful.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12da42071f8-OlMl338f19"><span id="zw-12da42071f8JBT4LE338f19">Teachers are in a unique position to observe kids when they are unaware, and as such should be on the lookout for speech or behaviors that may indicate violent tendencies or bullying. By addressing these situations as they occur, it is much more likely that children with behavioral problems can begin receiving help early on, as opposed to after the situation has escalated. Training teachers and administrators on recognizing and dealing with the signs can help prevent school violence in many instances. </span></p>
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		<title>When Your Kid is the Bully</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/when-your-kid-is-the-bully.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/when-your-kid-is-the-bully.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 04 Jan 2011 02:58:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=289</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[F​inding out that your child is being bullied at school is a nightmare situation for most parents, especially with the rash of recent incidents in the news. However, if your child is a target you can take steps to help them cope with the situation, defuse the danger and bring the school administration&#8217;s attention to the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="zemanta-img" style="margin: 1em; display: block;">
<div class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bullying_Irfe.jpg"><img title="Bullying on IRFE in March 5, 2007, the first c..." src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/58/Bullying_Irfe.jpg/300px-Bullying_Irfe.jpg" alt="Bullying on IRFE in March 5, 2007, the first c..." width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Image via Wikipedia</p></div>
</div>
<p id="zw-12da4074cf78Vg3mP338f19">F<span id="zw-12da409eb35yYv-Sq338f19">​inding out that your child is being bullied at school is a nightmare situation for most parents, especially with the rash of recent incidents in the news. However, if your child is a target you can take steps to help them cope with the situation, defuse the danger and bring the school administration&#8217;s attention to the problem. When a parent receives a phone call from school with the news that their child is the bully in question, most are unsure where to begin or even whether or not to believe it. </span><br id="zw-12da4074ca73v4Nvi338f19" /></p>
<p id="zw-12da40c211bvZHrmy338f19"><span id="zw-12da40c211bMfSaJJ338f19">It is of prime importance that parents take bullying in school seriously. Gone are the days when mom and dad were advised to &#8220;let the kids work it out on their own,&#8221; and when victims were told to &#8220;stand up for themselves and fight back.&#8221; These types of solutions are anything but, and more likely to result in an exacerbation of the issue. Parents who are notified that their child has been bullying other children should understand that it is extremely unlikely that the teachers are persecuting him for no reason, and should take immediate steps to understand and curtail the behavior.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12da41225e8nLJBCi338f19"><span id="zw-12da41225e85QPgR-338f19">A tendency to bully can only come from one of two places: internal or external stimulus. The most likely, and easiest to counteract, stimulus is external. Parents should look first to their own methods of disciplining and maintaining order. Do they often use threats or intimidation to encourage good behavior? Do they use physical punishment? If the honest answer to these questions is &#8220;no,&#8221; the child may have emotional problems that are causing an internal tendency to act out. In this case, family and child counseling is in order. An inability to empathize with others is often the cause behind aggressive children and this must be dealt with in by a professional in child psychology.</span></p>
<div class="zemanta-pixie" style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;"><img class="zemanta-pixie-img" style="border: none; float: right;" src="http://img.zemanta.com/pixy.gif?x-id=455399fe-cdf9-4c6b-8fd0-dc4f71298b7d" alt="" /></div>
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		<title>I​s Bullying Really a New Thing?</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/i%e2%80%8bs-bullying-really-a-new-thing.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/i%e2%80%8bs-bullying-really-a-new-thing.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 02 Jan 2011 10:07:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Discipline]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=287</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[T​he news has been rocked in recent months with stories of youths who were tormented, stalked, humiliated, and in some cases, even physically harmed by their peers and classmates. Some of these kids were targeted for their sexual preference, and that caught the attention of the media in a big way. However, looking back a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="zw-12da3f8c817yPe91-338f19">T<span id="zw-12da3fa07d11ikl7d338f19">​he news has been rocked in recent months with stories of youths who were tormented, stalked, humiliated, and in some cases, even physically harmed by their peers and classmates. Some of these kids were targeted for their sexual preference, and that caught the attention of the media in a big way. However, looking back a few years, one might recall the story of the girl who was tricked into believing she was communicating with a young man here own age. When the grown woman pretending to be that young man turned on the girl, she committed suicide, resulting in a charges against the woman.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12da3fd70ecFCBDwT338f19">T<span id="zw-12da3fd7647OwoegX338f19">​he short answer is that bullying, by any definition and in any situation, is not a new trend. For as long as there has been civilization, there have been those that attempt to gain power over others through the use of fear tactics and intimidation. Whether people are targeted for their beliefs, their appearance, or for identifying characteristics over which they have no choice, the single unifying factor in bullying victims is that they exude a sense of weaknesses. It is most important to understand that bullies prey upon those whom they can intimidate with words and with limited effort. When the target becomes too much trouble, or the bully senses that his attempts may fail and therefore cause his own pain or humiliation, the bullying typically stops.</span></p>
<p id="zw-12da402ec8cdyTJ5338f19"><span id="zw-12da402fd16QxIyw1338f19">Teachers, administrators and parents should all understand that this deviant behavior has been exhibited by people since the earliest human societies and that it is likely to continue indefinitely. The task at hand is to help potential targets understand the nature of bullying tactics and to give them the tools they need to keep themselves safe. Once young victims of bullying feel certain that they can turn to an adult for</span> <span id="zw-12da4054746vUCBGq338f19">​help, they become much more capable of handling the situation. </span></p>
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		<title>It Will Take the Efforts of the Entire Village to Gain Control of School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/it-will-take-the-efforts-of-the-entire-village-to-gain-control-of-school-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/it-will-take-the-efforts-of-the-entire-village-to-gain-control-of-school-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 30 Dec 2010 06:46:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bullying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=209</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[School violence is a growing concern for school administrators, faculty and parents. Violence among youths is increasing exponentially and this violence is spilling into the school system. This continuing problem has inspired the Center of Disease Control to conduct studies on prevention and offer the results of their studies to the public and educators. School [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>School violence is a growing concern for school  administrators, faculty and parents. Violence among youths is increasing  exponentially and this violence is spilling into the school system.  This continuing problem has inspired the Center of Disease Control to  conduct studies on prevention and offer the results of their studies to  the public and educators.</p>
<p>School administrators struggle to  develop effective methods to reduce school violence. Most of the  policies schools have in place are effective. There are many schools  that provide a safe environment and have not experienced an increase in  violence.  Much of the violence will occur at the end of the school day,  once the children have left school premises.</p>
<p>For many school  administrators providing a safe environment is a top priority. However,  with dwindling budgets, growing class size and staff cuts it is  difficult to monitor all of the activities that occur throughout the  school day. This problem is compounded by the fact most children are  afraid to let and adult know he or she is being bullied or threatened in  school. While much of the  violence  is initiated during school hours,  the most serious threats are typically carried out after school.</p>
<p>For schools that are experiencing an increase in violence,  administrators have responded with a no tolerance policy to weapons and  violent behavior. The offenders are suspended or expelled. Many of them  end up in juvenile facilities. However, the more subtle violence such as  bullying is often over looked and goes unnoticed until tragedy strikes.  At this point, the bully is expelled and may not be allowed to return  to school.</p>
<p>Preventing school violence is the responsibility of  school administrators; however, the problem is rooted within the  community and in the homes of children. Parent and community involvement  is crucial in gaining control of this growing problem.</p>
<div class="zemanta-pixie" style="margin-top: 10px; height: 15px;"><img class="zemanta-pixie-img" style="border: none; float: right;" src="http://img.zemanta.com/pixy.gif?x-id=9ce4ecad-ac0a-4473-8cd0-e3c8a919e0b1" alt="" /></div>
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		<title>Bullying is Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/bullying-is-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/bullying-is-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 26 Dec 2010 06:45:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bullying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[United States]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=207</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are usually a few bullies to contend with in most schools. Unfortunately, in many cases bullying is not addressed quickly enough. Many children suffer fear and humiliation each day they attend school. While most bullying involves taunting and picking on another child, it is also accompanied by threats of physical violence. In many cases, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There are usually a few bullies to contend with in most schools. Unfortunately, in many cases bullying is not addressed quickly enough. Many children suffer fear and humiliation each day they attend school. While most bullying involves taunting and picking on another child, it is also accompanied by threats of physical violence. In many cases, children endure physical abuse. Bullying has often been overlooked, and now school administrators are classifying this as violent behavior whether the abuse is mental or physical.  Most bullying occurs between classes, on the playground and during lunch. It is the responsibility of the school administrators and teachers to pay attention to such behavior. Many schools have instituted anti-bullying policies with specific protocols to address the situation effectively. In some areas of the United States, many schools are now required to report any activity of violence to the authorities. School administrators have recognized bullying leads to physical violence and have acknowledged the responsibility of the school administration to provide a safe environment.  Many schools have instituted policies in which the parents of the victim and offender are immediately notified of the situation. Parental involvement is critical for both the victim and the offending bully. Disciplinary action is immediate and includes suspension and expulsion. In addition, the children and parents may be required to take courses such as anger management. Such policies are effective if the victim comes forward to report the bullying. However, in most cases, the victim is fearful of reporting such an incident.   While school administrators are developing policies to address school violence, many children still suffer humiliation and threats. This not only impacts the child&#8217;s ability to learn it also diminishes the child&#8217;s self-esteem. It is important to let children know that bullying will not be tolerated. It is also important to let victims know when they report bullying, they will not have to fear retaliation.</p>
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		<title>School Violence Requires Action From Schools, Parents and Community</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence-requires-action-from-schools-parents-and-community.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence-requires-action-from-schools-parents-and-community.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 24 Dec 2010 06:44:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=205</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[School administrators across the country; have begun to institute no tolerance policies to combat increasing violence within the school system. While the policies vary between states and school districts, it is a concerted effort to provide a safe educational environment for students. However, schools are still struggling with violence. Providing solutions and instituting new policies [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>School administrators across the country; have begun to institute no tolerance policies to combat increasing violence within the school system. While the policies vary between states and school districts, it is a concerted effort to provide a safe educational environment for students. However, schools are still struggling with violence. Providing solutions and instituting new policies can be costly. Many school budgets are stretched to the limits. Class sizes continue to grow and teachers find it difficult to manage these burgeoning class sizes.  There are numerous published studies on the growing problem of school violence. Ultimately, poor behavior in children begins in the home. Many children live in poverty, abusive homes and witness violence in the home or in their neighborhoods. This behavior will often manifest while the child is at school. School administrators have the difficult task of relating to children that are raised in bleak circumstances. The lack of parental support and involvement is crippling.  While some schools experience little school violence, many schools must deal with violence daily. In the most violent schools, there are security guards, metal detectors and locked down lunches. This does not create a pleasant environment for educational purposes. Unfortunately, these measures do nothing to solve the root of the problem. Children are becoming more violent and the school system is unable to solve the problem without the support from parents and the community.  To gain control of this growing problem, school administrators, parents and the community must become actively involved. Disciplinary action taken by the school system are ineffective unless the parents support the action and reinforce these actions within the home. Communities must understand that supporting the school system is crucial. School funding continues to suffer budget cuts while class size continues to increase. To establish safer schools, funding issues must be resolved.</p>
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		<title>The Root Cause of School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-root-cause-of-school-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-root-cause-of-school-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Dec 2010 06:44:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=203</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[While school administrators contend with devising new policies and procedures to create a safe learning environment, violence among youths increases. The growing problem is an issue society must address. The violence in schools is a problem that originates in the home and community. Many children live in violent and poor neighborhoods. Many studies conclude children [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>While school administrators contend with devising new policies  and procedures to create a safe learning environment, violence among  youths increases. The growing problem is an issue society must address.  The violence in schools is a problem that originates in the home and  community. Many children live in violent and poor neighborhoods. Many  studies conclude children in low-income areas have a propensity toward  violent behavior. Sadly, they are learning and adopting this behavior  from their surrounding environment. Parents struggle to support their  families and are often absent from the home during critical periods.</p>
<p>Until the root cause is addressed and dealt with, school violence will  continue to rise. School administrators have the daunting task of  balancing a solid education with a safe environment. If a child is  violent in the home, this will eventually be expressed in school. Many  schools have instituted sensitivity training for school staff. This  training includes skills to relate and communicate with children that  may come from a hostile environment. In addition, this training includes  methods of detecting warning signs and recognizing children that are at  high risk.</p>
<p>School violence is an issue that many communities are experiencing. The  Center for Disease control has declared this a public health issue. In  addition, the CDC has initiated studies and made public the results of  these studies. In an effort to provide schools and the communities with  effective tools, the CDC has published free information available to the  public. These tools include published studies, fact sheets and teaching  aides for educators.</p>
<p>School administrators continue their efforts to provide a safe learning  experience for all children. However, their resources are dwindling as  violence among youths continues to rise. Until the root of the problem  is addressed and solutions found, the violence will grow exponentially.  This violent trend continues to garner the attention of the CDC and  solutions are actively sought.</p>
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		<title>My How Schools Have Changed</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/my-how-schools-have-changed.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/my-how-schools-have-changed.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Dec 2010 06:43:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School district]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[State school]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[United States]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=201</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[School systems have changed dramatically over the passed 15 years. The school landscape in many communities is similar to a detention center instead of a learning institution. School violence is increasing and many school systems struggle with the challenge of providing a safe environment while providing an environment that is conducive to learning. This challenge [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>School systems have changed dramatically over the passed 15  years. The school landscape in many communities is similar to a  detention center instead of a learning institution. School violence is  increasing and many school systems struggle with the challenge of  providing a safe environment while providing an environment that is  conducive to learning. This challenge has significantly changed the  landscape of many public schools.</p>
<p>Administrative responsibilities of schools have become complex and  costly. School administrators have become burdened with dealing with  violent youths that most are ill equipped to handle. Educators are  trained to teach and many are finding they lack the knowledge and skill  required to address violent behavior. Unfortunately, this has led to  significant changes in the school system.</p>
<p>Many schools have instituted security programs that are likened to a  detention center. Schools across the country have added metal detectors,  locker searches, security guards and some have hired drug-sniffing  canines. Many schools lock down the school during lunch periods to  circumvent children from leaving the campus. Numerous schools have added  closed-circuit televisions and student identification cards. Schools  that struggle with a diminishing budget have asked parents to volunteer  to monitor school hallways, playgrounds and lunchrooms.</p>
<p>While schools and communities struggle to find viable and effective  solutions, many schools look like a place where children are punished  and serving time instead of obtaining an education. As the violence  increases, additional strict measures will be put in place. Attending  school today is vastly different than it was just 15 years ago.</p>
<p>It is difficult to imagine how the school landscape will change in the  next 15 years. Many schools have failed to maintain proper education  levels and now must contend with providing proper security and safety.  Finding the balance of providing safety and a good education is a  difficult challenge.</p>
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		<title>The Power of School Assemblies Against Bullies</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-power-of-school-assemblies-against-bullies.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-power-of-school-assemblies-against-bullies.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 19 Dec 2010 06:42:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bullying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School bullying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=199</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Schools across the country have recognized that bullying is a serious offense. With school violence increasing, many schools and communities are implementing programs to end school bullying. School administrators in many parts of the country are empowering children with tools to protect themselves and others against bullies. In addition, many educators are receiving much needed [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Schools across the country have recognized that bullying is a  serious offense. With school violence increasing, many schools and  communities are implementing programs to end school bullying. School  administrators in many parts of the country are empowering children with  tools to protect themselves and others against bullies. In addition,  many educators are receiving much needed training in recognizing that  teasing and taunting is a painful experience for any child. In the past,  bullying has been treated lightly. Today, school administrators have  developed policies and procedures to address bullying with immediate  action.</p>
<p>Children can report bullying and remain anonymous without fear of  retaliation. School administrators have realized they must create trust  among their students and provide a safe avenue for children to report  offenses. Many schools have developed mandatory education classes to  educate children on bullying and why it is wrong. One of the most  effective tactics has been school assemblies. Gathering the students in  an auditorium to discuss bullying has proven to be quite effective. Most  bullies come from home environments where they are being bullied or  they bully to gain notoriety and become popular. This public discussion  of bullying often embarrasses bullies and empowers other students with  the knowledge that a bully is not cool at all, but a sad individual that  needs help.</p>
<p>Bullies try to impress their friends by taunting other children. They  want to be noticed and recognized. School assemblies that focus on the  subject of bullying, have effectively diminished the power of bullies.  This creates an environment where bullies are viewed as undesirable  individuals instead of popular. These assemblies empower other children  with knowledge and tools to prevent bullying. It has also created an  environment in which victims have a voice and gain the support of their  fellow students. These assemblies have inspired students to develop  student groups committed to protecting and helping fellow students that  are being bullied.</p>
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		<title>A Child is Bullied Every Seven Minutes</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/a-child-is-bullied-every-seven-minutes.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/a-child-is-bullied-every-seven-minutes.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 18 Dec 2010 06:41:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bullying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=197</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The increase of violence among youths is troubling and disturbing. Unfortunately, this violence is often perpetrated in school. This has caused an environment to develop in which some children fear attending school. Statistically, a child is bullied every seven minutes. Creating a safe environment for children to be educated is a challenge in many schools. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The increase of violence among youths is troubling and  disturbing. Unfortunately, this violence is often perpetrated in school.  This has caused an environment to develop in which some children fear  attending school. Statistically, a child is bullied every seven minutes.  Creating a safe environment for children to be educated is a challenge  in many schools. The role of school administration has changed from  providing a good education to combating school violence. Many schools  have recognized the emotional and physical abuse that occurs in schools  daily. Thousands of children dread attending school for fear of being  bullied.</p>
<p>Many children will miss school because they are so fearful of being  bullied. At least eight percent of children miss at least one day per  month because they are afraid to attend school. Over 43 percent of  children are terrified of using the restrooms at school because they are  more likely to be harassed in the school restrooms. Many children are  harassed or bullied on school playgrounds. Sadly, over 85 percent of the  time, there is no intervention by teachers or peers. The problem is  compounded by staggering statistics that indicate an argument with a  bully results in physical violence 80 percent of the time.</p>
<p>School administrators find themselves scrambling to provide solutions  for this growing problem. Many children suffer silently at the hands of a  bully for fear of retaliation if they report the incident. Many schools  have instituted confidentiality policies to encourage students to  report bullying. Many schools have instituted policies of immediate  expulsion and reporting the violent behavior to local authorities.</p>
<p>While many schools struggle to prevent school violence, children  continue to be bullied and tormented. This growing problem not only  causes harm physically and emotionally, it prevents children from  obtaining an education. It makes learning difficult because many  children dread and fear attending school.</p>
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		<title>A Parent&#8217;s Guide to Helping a Child Cope With Bullying</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/a-parents-guide-to-helping-a-child-cope-with-bullying.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/a-parents-guide-to-helping-a-child-cope-with-bullying.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 Dec 2010 06:41:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bullying]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Parent]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence and Abuse]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=195</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[While schools struggle to provide a safe educational environment, many children continue to be afraid of going to school. School administrations across the country are beginning to address bullying with stricter disciplinary acts in an effort to make attending school safe and enjoyable for children. However, these efforts are only effective if children come forward [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>While schools struggle to provide a safe educational  environment, many children continue to be afraid of going to school.  School administrations across the country are beginning to address  bullying with stricter disciplinary acts in an effort to make attending  school safe and enjoyable for children. However, these efforts are only  effective if children come forward to report bullying. Most children are  afraid that the bullying will become worse if they report it. Many  parents are unaware that their child is being bullied. There are several  warning signs and many things a parent can do to help their child.</p>
<p>The fist warning sign that your child may be taunted by a bully is the  child&#8217;s unwillingness to go to school. The child may attempt to fake an  illness so he or she can stay home from school. While this is a warning  sign that is often over looked, it is important for a parent to question  and investigate why their child does not want to attend school. If your  child is adamant about not attending school one day, allow your child  to stay home. If you can, spend the day with your child, begin a  conversation with your child about why they do not want to go to school.  Above all, let your child know that you love him or her. Allow your  child to talk and assure your child you are there to help. If you child  confides in you that he or she is being bullied, immediately contact  school officials to file a complaint. These complaints are handled in a  confidential manner. You child&#8217;s teachers will be made aware of the  situation and will monitor the situation closely. Talk with your child  daily and let your child know that he or she is not to blame.</p>
<p>Protecting children from bullying is a challenge that many parents face.  Developing open communication with your child will help him or her feel  more secure knowing you are there to help.</p>
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		<title>The Changing Role of School Boards and School Administrators</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-changing-role-of-school-boards-and-school-administrators.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-changing-role-of-school-boards-and-school-administrators.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 Dec 2010 06:40:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Board of education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=193</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[School boards and school administrators were once only responsible for providing sound educational curriculum, school nutrition and student activities. The school environment has changed dramatically as violence among youths is skyrocketing. School administrators now have to contend with developing methods to provide a safe school environment. This challenge has changed the role of school administrators [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>School boards and school administrators were once only  responsible for providing sound educational curriculum, school nutrition  and student activities. The school environment has changed dramatically  as violence among youths is skyrocketing. School administrators now  have to contend with developing methods to provide a safe school  environment. This challenge has changed the role of school  administrators significantly. Many educators and administrators have had  to obtain additional education to handle the violence in schools and  violent youths. Many schools have chosen to involve law enforcement  officials to help establish and implement new school programs to gain  control over school violence.</p>
<p>Instituting and managing programs to circumvent school violence are  complex and time consuming. Many schools struggle to provide an  education with dwindling school funds. The cost of security and safety  programs has caused many school administrators to sacrifice school  activities in favor of safety. Administrators are challenged with  finding the balance between protecting children from bullies while also  finding ways to help the offender. Many schools have instituted a policy  of immediate expulsion for any child that commits a violent act in  school. This has led to an additional controversy school officials are  forced to address.</p>
<p>If a child is expelled from school, where will the child receive and  education? School administrators must contend with complex issues  involving school violence and this takes its toll on the entire  education system. Violence among children continues to escalate and this  has left many schools to struggle on minimum budgets to find cost  effective solutions.</p>
<p>School administrators have a daunting and difficult role that has grown  in complexity. Schools have turned to parents and the community for  support and solutions to develop measures to end school violence.  Maintaining educational standards and providing a safe school system  will continue to be a challenge for schools across the country. The role  of school administrators will continue to change as they struggle to  tackle this growing problem.</p>
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		<title>School Bullying and Child Suicide</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-bullying-and-child-suicide.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-bullying-and-child-suicide.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Dec 2010 06:39:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bully]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Social network service]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Suicide]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=191</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[While many schools have developed anti-bullying policy, the bullying continues and many children have committed suicide. Suicide among young children was once a rare occurrence. So rare, the Center for Disease Control did not track suicide among young children. However, as violence among children increases so does suicide. School administrators have adopted stringent anti-bullying policies, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>While many schools have developed anti-bullying policy, the  bullying continues and many children have committed suicide. Suicide  among young children was once a rare occurrence. So rare, the Center for  Disease Control did not track suicide among young children. However, as  violence among children increases so does suicide. School  administrators have adopted stringent anti-bullying policies, however,  the bullying continues on social networking sites. Children feel so  helpless, they feel the only option for relief is suicide. Children as  young as eleven years old have committed suicide because they could no  longer cope with being bullied.</p>
<p>While school administrators recognize that bullying is a violent crime,  they struggle to develop effective methods to prevent it. Protecting  children from bullies is difficult for school officials and parents. The  abuse occurs daily and is relentless. Social media sites have opened  additional avenues for bullies to inflict harm on their victims.  Children are terrified to speak up and most suffer silently. Bullies  threaten children with physical harm and even death.</p>
<p>Many parents are shattered when they learn the misery their child had to  endure. Much of the bullying is not perpetrated by one person. One  child was bullied by a group of at least six people. She was bullied  everyday at school, on her way home from school and on social networking  sites. She eventually committed suicide at the age of 15. The six  bullies are currently charged with contributing to her death.</p>
<p>It is time for communities, schools and parents to recognize that  bullying is a violent crime that must be addressed immediately. Children  must be provided a safe way to report such incidence and if necessary,  be allowed to transfer to a different school. It is also important to  recognize that group bullying is a growing trend and youth violence  continues to grow.</p>
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		<title>School Violence and Administrator Resposibilities</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence-and-administrator-resposibilities.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence-and-administrator-resposibilities.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 11 Dec 2010 06:38:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teacher]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=189</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In today&#8217;s world, school violence has become a widespread problem. Simple acts of taunting and teasing can now lead to expedited violence, and many people blame school administrators for the increasing violence in our schools. The principal is often the first administrator blamed for acts of violence. Fortunately, the principal can take some steps to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In today&#8217;s world, school violence has become a widespread problem. Simple acts of taunting and teasing can now lead to expedited violence, and many people blame school administrators for the increasing violence in our schools. The principal is often the first administrator blamed for acts of violence. Fortunately, the principal can take some steps to safeguard the students.  Training Parents, Teachers and Students to End School Violence  The school principal can establish a non-violent school through many means. Some violence prevention ideas include physical tactics, like installing metal detectors, however, the most effective means of establishing a non-violent school involve education. By involving and/or educating parents, teachers and students, principals can begin to address violence issues in the schools.  One way to discourage violence is to involve parents. Children who receive parental support are less likely to bully and more likely to report inappropriate behavior, and potential violence can be discouraged through a partnership of children, parents, and school administrators.  Another way to prevent school violence is to train teachers in effective means of conflict management. Teachers who are able to manage fights and disagreements in the classroom will contribute to resolutions and prevent violence. Also, counseling staff should be aware of students in need, of ways to assist needy students, and of the community resources available to students.  In the same light, children should be trained in conflict managment. Arming the children with tools to dissuade, avoid or manage an argument will empower them to stop violence before it starts. Children should also be taught to respect others&#8217; belongings and beliefs, because respect is the key to non-violence.   In the fight against bullying and school violence, the most important tool is education. Parents who are equipped to address problems, teachers trained to manage conflict, and students who respect differences in others can together end school violence.</p>
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		<title>Administrative Responsibilities and School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/administrative-responsibilities-and-school-violence-2.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/administrative-responsibilities-and-school-violence-2.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Dec 2010 06:37:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teacher]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=186</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Although principals are often blamed for school violence, teachers receive a large share of blame in shcool violence activities. Whether fair or unfair to administrators, teachers are now faced with the additional career struggle of diffusing violent behaviors. Thankfully, violence can be prevented if caught early, and there are many signs for which teachers can [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Although principals are often blamed for school violence,  teachers receive a large share of blame in shcool violence activities.  Whether fair or unfair to administrators, teachers are now faced with  the additional career struggle of diffusing violent behaviors.  Thankfully, violence can be prevented if caught early, and there are  many signs for which teachers can watch.</p>
<p>Signs of a Potentially Violent Student</p>
<p>Students who are in danger of becoming violent often feel alone, and in  fact, these students may not have many or any friends. The potentially  violent student may also have trouble controlling his feelings, may  fight or argue regularly, and may threaten others. Also, an increase in  drug or alcohol intake, a gang affiliation, and a fascination with  weapons may indicate a student is leaning toward violence.</p>
<p>Students may also display a violent tendency if harming others,  including animals, becomes a game or power conveyance. In the same line,  a student who does not acknowledge others&#8217; feelings or rights is in  danger of becoming violent. Other signs of a violent student include  poor grades or a decrease in grades and a withdrawal from normal  activities or friends.</p>
<p>Teacher Responsibilities in Addressing the Student</p>
<p>Depending on school regulations, teachers may be advised to address a  potentially violent student or to report the student&#8217;s behavior to the  school counselor or principal. No matter what path the teacher must  take, the important outcome of teacher involvement is to get the student  the emotional and psychological help necessary.</p>
<p>Often, a teacher may not be equipped to address the psychological needs  of a violent student, however, reporting the student to the appropriate  administrator will allow school officials the opportunity to assist as  soon as possible. A teacher who is equipped with a counseling background  may assist the student to psychological healing.</p>
<p>Now required to identify and assist potentially violent students,  teachers can avert violence and encourage a safer learning environment.</p>
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		<title>Administrative Responsibilites and School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/administrative-responsibilites-and-school-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/administrative-responsibilites-and-school-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Dec 2010 06:37:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Parent]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=184</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In the war on school violence, counselors can play an integral part in assisting the potentially violent student. However, before they can assist a troubled student, counselors need to recognize signs of violent students. Then, the counselor will need to take steps toward helping the student re-establish lost connections, control feelings of anger, and acknowledge [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In the war on school violence, counselors can play an integral part in assisting the potentially violent student. However, before they can assist a troubled student, counselors need to recognize signs of violent students. Then, the counselor will need to take steps toward helping the student re-establish lost connections, control feelings of anger, and acknowledge the worth of every single being.  Identifying a Potentially Violent Student  Although counselors will depend heavily on teachers to point out troubled students, counselors should also watch for any signs of violent tendencies, such as the following:  &#8211; Feeling outcast or alone &#8211; Not identifying with a group/not having many or any friends &#8211; Fighting or arguing often &#8211; Taking risks &#8211; Vandalizing property &#8211; Hurting animals &#8211; Planning to hurt others &#8211; Drug or alcohol abuse &#8211; Fascination with weapons &#8211; Decreased grades/poor performance &#8211; Distancing oneself from former friends or activities  Addressing Troubled Students  Students leaning toward violence should be addressed as soon as the counselor is aware of the child&#8217;s tendencies. The child should be removed from class, and a thorough psychological assessment should be administered. A student who is a danger to himself or to others should be taken to the appropriate care facility immediately.  A child who is not an immediate danger can receive school attention and guidance. The counselor should address the student&#8217;s issues through standard protocol and follow up as necessary. Also, involving the parents is one key toward the child&#8217;s recovery. By showing parental concern and adult involvement, the parents and counselor can together influence a child away from violent tendencies.  Recent research has also suggested that developing analytical-thinking skills in children can decrease violent tendencies. A child who can solve a problem by thinking outside the box will feel more able to address issues in a non-violent manner.   Overall, a child with violent tendencies can begin to think in a non-violent manner with the proper direction and parental participation.</p>
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		<title>Administrative Responsibilities and School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/administrative-responsibilities-and-school-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/administrative-responsibilities-and-school-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Dec 2010 06:36:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Parent]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=182</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Recent studies have proven that parental involvement in a potentially violent child&#8217;s treatment will often influence the child to overcome obstacles which may contribute to the child&#8217;s violent tendencies. However, the task of involving a parent may be daunting to administrators since parents can be resistant to the possibility of having raised a violent child. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Recent studies have proven that parental involvement in a potentially violent child&#8217;s treatment will often influence the child to overcome obstacles which may contribute to the child&#8217;s violent tendencies. However, the task of involving a parent may be daunting to administrators since parents can be resistant to the possibility of having raised a violent child. How, then, do administrators encourage parents to address the issues in their child&#8217;s life?  Introducing the Violence Issue  To begin the discussion, counselors may invite the parents to their office or request a time for a home visit. The parents may feel more comfortable in their own home.  Upon invitation, the counselor may address his concerns. An opening showing concern and compassion will be more well-received than an accusation, so a counselor may wish to open with a statement such as, &#8220;I am concerned about your son&#8217;s recent withdrawal from the basketball team.&#8221; This open-ended concern may encourage the parents to address their own concerns. If this is the case, listen to the parent&#8217;s concerns.  Even if their parenting style seems offensive, a counselor should never criticize the parents. Instead, focusing on the positive aspects of their parenting and suggesting additional tactics and techniques can help establish a working parent-counselor relationship.  During the visit, it is important to determine if the teen is a danger to the family. Many parents with violent teens may have been abused by or in danger of abuse from their children. Establishing an open, non-judgmental line of communication can encourage abused parents to seek assistance. At this point, ensure the parents are not in immediate danger and refer them to appropriate information or authorities. No one deserves to be assaulted, and parents should always feel safe.   Overall, being open to parental concern, offering assistance, and ensuring parents are safe from harm can all go a long way toward cementing a relationship with a violent child&#8217;s parents in an effort to help the child.</p>
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		<title>Administrative Responsibilities</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/administrative-responsibilities-2.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/administrative-responsibilities-2.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Dec 2010 06:35:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Metal detector]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School district]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=180</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In the ever-increasing world of school violence, it has become commonplace for administrators to install metal detectors within urban schools. Although there is much debate about whether metal detectors offer security, many parents request metal detectors be placed in the schools after cases of shootings in or around the school district. The parents often believe [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In the ever-increasing world of school violence, it has become  commonplace for administrators to install metal detectors within urban  schools. Although there is much debate about whether metal detectors  offer security, many parents request metal detectors be placed in the  schools after cases of shootings in or around the school district. The  parents often believe the metal detectors will guarantee their children  will be safe in schools, however statistics show that metal detectors  may linstill a false sense of security that may lead to increased  violence.  If this is the case, is it ever appropriate to require metal  detectors in schools?</p>
<p>High-Viiolence Urban School Districts</p>
<p>In school districts where violence is more common than not, it is often  beneficial for school officials to implement metal detection at school  entrances. However, in such school districts, the metal detectors must  be coupled with increased security. Often, in school districts that do  not have high rates of violence, metal detectors offer security  officials, parents and teachers a sense of security that makes them more  lax in their own security measures. This can backfire, so if metal  detectors are chosen as additional security measures in any school, it  is very important to continue to monitor and closely watch students for  any signs of intended violence.</p>
<p>Average School Districts</p>
<p>Most districts fall into a moderate level of school violence, and these  schools should carefully consider the message metal detectors send to  students before placing them in schools. Rather than make students feel  more secure, the detectors can make students feel violated, untrusted,  and distrustful of fellow students. A perceived danger will be unnerving  to the majority of students, so officials should carefully weigh the  necessity of metal detectors before placing them in schools.</p>
<p>Metal detectors have a place in high-violence school districts, however,  in the average schools, metal detectors can backfire in the intended  safety measures.  Therefore, careful consideration should be given to  metal detector necessity.</p>
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		<title>School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence-3.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence-3.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 05 Dec 2010 06:34:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence and Abuse]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=178</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In 1940, talking out of turn and chewing gum were the most common offenses which required disciplinary action. On the other hand, in 1990, drug abuse and alcohol abuse have topped the list for school offenses. In light of the increased severity of offenses, disciplinary actions have had to change. Whereas a 1940&#8242;s student could [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In 1940, talking out of turn and chewing gum were the most  common offenses which required disciplinary action. On the other hand,  in 1990, drug abuse and alcohol abuse have topped the list for school  offenses. In light of the increased severity of offenses, disciplinary  actions have had to change. Whereas a 1940&#8242;s student could be  reprimanded with a detention, our moderns students require more severe  disciplinary tactics. Let&#8217;s look at the best disciplinary tactics for  common school violence issues in today&#8217;s society.</p>
<p>Common Violence Problems</p>
<p>Violence in today&#8217;s schools is much more commonplace and severe than the  violence that existed in 1940&#8242;s society. Modern students fight much  more often and with much more severity, and the following top the list  of physically violent acts and/or actions that often lead to physical  violence: Threats, insults, assaults, theft, assault with a weapon, and  rape. With these types of violent behaviors, there is obviously a  necessity for more severe discipline; the detention used in 1940 to stop  gum-chewing will not cut it in today&#8217;s schools.</p>
<p>Reasons for Violence</p>
<p>An understanding of the common reasons behind the increased violence can  assist officials in deciding a better-suited disciplinary action for  violent behaviors. Many children who turn to violence have learned  behaviors from the streets and/or home environment, may have little  parental supervision, may be resisting/fighting against the poverty in  which they were raised, and may seek acceptance from a group or gang.</p>
<p>Disciplinary Actions</p>
<p>The basic principals of modern disciplinary action should therefore  include both affirmations for good behavior and disciplinary action for  unwanted behavior. Effective discipline can range from suspension to  expulsion to anger-management detentions, however, according to  research, the combination of discipline for negative behaviors/violence  and rewards for positive behaviors can more greatly encourage students  to behave well.</p>
<p>The history of discipline and violence has encouraged a multi-faceted  approach to discipline in today&#8217;s school district.  Combining discipline  and rewards can lead to a less violent school district.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence-2.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence-2.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Dec 2010 06:33:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence and Abuse]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=176</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The theory that school violence can be combated through a combination of discipline and rewards is fascinating to many school officials. Discipline has been the primary method of preventing and fighting school violence for years, but studies on the reasons behind student&#8217;s violent behaviors has revealed that students most commonly lean toward violence in an [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The theory that school violence can be combated through a  combination of discipline and rewards is fascinating to many school  officials. Discipline has been the primary method of preventing and  fighting school violence for years, but studies on the reasons behind  student&#8217;s violent behaviors has revealed that students most commonly  lean toward violence in an effort to belong and be loved. For example,  many young gang members join because they are seeking a group to which  they may belong, and the violent behaviors follow.</p>
<p>Rewards</p>
<p>For this reason, seeking group acceptance, student violence can often be  prevented by making school group acceptance more desirable and  achievable. Providing good, non-violent students with rewards may  encourage children leaning toward violence to instead follow the example  and seek non-violent school group acceptance. In addition to making the  groups more desirable through rewards, a student may be encouraged by a  group invitation that makes the group seem more achievable.</p>
<p>Discipline</p>
<p>Of course, violence cannot be combated by rewards alone. Violent  behaviors must be addressed. However, some formerly standard  disciplinary actions, like suspension, may not discourage student  violence. Depending on the severity of the violence. the student may  need in-school guidance, anger management courses, out-of-school  psychological treatment, and possibly police intervention. In any case,  violent behaviors and tendencies must never be tolerated because they  can lead to more sever violence from the child, the child&#8217;s friends, and  copycat children.</p>
<p>Zero-Tolerance</p>
<p>Therefore, a zero-tolerance rule should be applied to school violence.  Violence in any form should always be addressed by a teacher, counselor,  principal, or police officer. In addition, students may benefit from  violence education through an assembly or a required class.</p>
<p>Keeping the children in your school district safe from violence is the  top priority of school officials.  Thankfully, rewarding the positive,  disciplining violence, and adapting a zero-tolerance rule are proven to  benefit schools.</p>
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		<title>Administrative Responsibilities</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/administrative-responsibilities.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/administrative-responsibilities.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Dec 2010 06:33:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School district]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Weapon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Zero tolerance]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=174</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Zero tolerance has, in some cases, developed a bad reputation in education. The ideas behind zero tolerance, that any unwanted behavior, no matter the circumstances, be punished in the same way for every student, has both positive and negative implications. A student who punches another student out of self-defense, for example, would receive the same [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Zero tolerance has, in some cases, developed a bad reputation in  education. The ideas behind zero tolerance, that any unwanted behavior,  no matter the circumstances, be punished in the same way for every  student, has both positive and negative implications. A student who  punches another student out of self-defense, for example, would receive  the same punishment as a student who hit another student for no apparent  reason. This seems, and may be, highly unfair. However, in situations  such as drug dealing and holding a weapon, a zero tolerance rule could  very well save children&#8217;s lives. Let&#8217;s look behind the scenes at a zero  tolerance rule for weapons.</p>
<p>Weapon Dangers</p>
<p>Weapons can, of course, cause harm to the student for whom the weapon is  intended, and that alone should indicate a zero tolerance weapon rule  should exist on every campus. However, weapons can also become dangerous  to every single person within the school walls. A student who is  mentally imbalanced could, for example, turn the weapon on students,  teachers, and officials, potentially causing a school massacre. Also,  weapons could easily fall into the wrong hands in a joint school  situation. For example, in a junior high/elementary combination school, a  young child could find the weapon unintentionally kill himself and  other innocent children.</p>
<p>Zero Tolerance Solution</p>
<p>Obviously, with so much potential for harm, weapons should never be  allowed in schools. A zero tolerance rule for all weapons should be  implemented. Although critics of the zero tolerance rule may state that  toy guns and work-related box-cutters should be allowed, there is no  reason to bend the rules for any student. Unloaded guns for  show-and-tell can always be loaded in the school and cause harm. Toy  guns can cause unrest in the school if students or teachers are unaware  the gun is not real. Work-related box-cutters can be turned on any  student or teacher. Truly, there is no reason that weapons of any sort  should be allowed in a school.</p>
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		<title>School Violence and Administrator Responsibilities</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence-and-administrator-responsibilities.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence-and-administrator-responsibilities.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Dec 2010 06:32:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School counselor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=172</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In schools unlucky enough to have experienced violent behavior from a student, it is very important that counselors are prepared to assist students when school resumes. Students may be fearful, saddened, inattentive, or depressed, so preparing the counseling staff and possibly outside counselors to guide students through feelings is a necessary step in healing the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In schools unlucky enough to have experienced violent behavior from a student, it is very important that counselors are prepared to assist students when school resumes. Students may be fearful, saddened, inattentive, or depressed, so preparing the counseling staff and possibly outside counselors to guide students through feelings is a necessary step in healing the school and preventing follow-up violence, fights, or arguments.  Preparing  A counseling staff sufficient to the severity of the violence should be on staff. This means that a localized, small violent attack may be addressed by your existing counselors. However, a widespread or extreme attack may require a number of additional counselors and psychologists be brought on staff for days or months following the attack. In the Columbine attack, for example, the severity and widespread actions of the attacks necessitated the school close for the rest of the year, and thorough in-school counseling was offered when school resumed.  Guiding Hurting Students  After a school shooting or violence, students will go through the many steps of grief, even students who were not close to those injured or killed. It is therefore important to have open-door counseling available to all students who wish to talk. Many students may receive counseling and support from friends and family, and others too close to victims may seek outside counseling rather than in-school counseling.  The important things to address in counseling in the aftermath of a shooting or violence is ensuring that all students have a support system and the option of talking to a certified counselor. Counselors should seek out students closest to the victims to make sure they are receiving the help needed, watch for signs of dangers in other students, and offer help where they believe it necessary. Counselors should also request that teachers watch for any signs of depression or copycat violence and report them to the counseling staff immediately.   School officials and counselors should be prepared to help students in the aftermath of school violence. Also, counselors should ensure that all students were assisted through some form of counseling, watch for signs of depression, and be on the lookout for copycats.</p>
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		<title>School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/school-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Dec 2010 06:30:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teacher]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=170</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The reasons behind school violence are plentiful, but most can be narrowed down to a foundation of feeling disrespected by teachers, peers, and school officials. Fights over gang territory, for example, can often be traced to one gang disrespecting another gang&#8217;s perceived territory. Disagreements between students can stem from a disrespect of property, ideas, or [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The reasons behind school violence are plentiful, but most can be narrowed down to a foundation of feeling disrespected by teachers, peers, and school officials. Fights over gang territory, for example, can often be traced to one gang disrespecting another gang&#8217;s perceived territory. Disagreements between students can stem from a disrespect of property, ideas, or beliefs. Even the Columbine massacre can be traced to the boys&#8217; perceptions that students and teachers did not respect them as individuals. Therefore, if disrespect is the core reason for many violent actions, it is important to teach students how to respect one another.  Teaching Respect  Respect may feel like a difficult concept to teach, but the basics can reach children as young as two years old. Most children of this age are taught to respect each other&#8217;s property, show respect to elders, and to avoid physically harming each other. Given the basics were learned at an early age, it is easy to re-instill ideas of respect in older children: Remind them of the golden rule.  If basics were not addressed in the formative years, it may be more difficult to teach children to show respect. The basic idea that respecting another human means that you acknowledge their ability to be hurt or upset can be more difficult to convey to children at a later age. However, children may respond to the idea that you might not agree with a person but can accept that a person has feelings, even if they think differently.  Leading by Example  The other important way to teach respect is to show respect. As teachers, it is important to respect every student, teacher, and administrator who may cross your path. By showing respect, a teacher leads students to repect others through example.   Even though respect is a difficult concept for may students to grasp, respect is the key to decreasing school violence. Teaching young children about respect makes the concept easier, but older children can also learn.</p>
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		<title>The War on School Violence</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-war-on-school-violence.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-war-on-school-violence.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 27 Nov 2010 00:54:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brazil]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Crime and Justice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gang]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Race and ethnicity in the United States Census]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rio de Janeiro]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence and Abuse]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=136</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Image via Wikipedia In the society we live in these days, school violence is taking its toll on the well being of students across the country! We have come a long way from the days of â€œLeave it to Beaverâ€ or â€œFather Knows Bestâ€, but why is that? What happen to the days when matters [...]]]></description>
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<dd class="wp-caption-dd zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Patada.jpg">Wikipedia</a></dd>
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<p>In the society we live in these days, school violence is taking its toll on the well being of students across the country! We have come a long way from the days of â€œLeave it to Beaverâ€ or â€œFather Knows Bestâ€, but why is that? What happen to the days when matters were resolved and done away with?</p>
<p>Studies show that violence hit an all time peak in early to mid 1990â€™s. This was because of shootings that took place in schools; due to students bring firearms for protection. It also included students bring in guns for gang initiation so that they would be accepted!</p>
<p>In 2009 to 2010, a percentage of 12 suicides and 34 homicides were reported due to gang violence in schools. These statics came mostly from the rural areas and low income cities in the country. Within the same years, other shocking reports showed the percentages of different ethic groups that were reported in the school systems, contributing to gang related violence;</p>
<p>45% African American<br />
40% Hispanic<br />
22% Asian<br />
20% Caucasian</p>
<p>These cases are in the high school sectors alone!</p>
<p>The reasoning behind this is due to students are under more pressure then ever then in past decades! Schooling is just one of the many areas that our youth are challenged in. Many have the burdens of family, peer pressure, drugs, low self-esteem, and other personal areas in their lives to deal with. More and more students are turning to gangs and violent as a way to relive anxiety or to be accepted.</p>
<p>Today, more schools are working to try and resolve school violent by bring back old methods such as, more counseling, motivational speakers, and workshops on bullying. Discussions in the classrooms are being included in certain curriculums to deal with stress management and conflict resolution. In this day and age, leading by example is more critical then ever!</p>
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		<title>Principal Duties</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/principal-duties.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/principal-duties.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:54:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Educators]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Elementary school]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Head teacher]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[K through 12]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Middle school]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teacher]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=134</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Image by Getty Images via @daylife When most of the adults today were in grade school, it was a different world. Grade school teachers could discipline the students as they saw fit. This included a smack in the head, a ruler across the knuckles, and most of us are not sure what happened when someone [...]]]></description>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://www.daylife.com/image/044X5Iw4M35lP?utm_source=zemanta&amp;utm_medium=p&amp;utm_content=044X5Iw4M35lP&amp;utm_campaign=z1"><img title="LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 14:  Erin Abrams, a se..." src="http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/044X5Iw4M35lP/100x150.jpg" alt="LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 14:  Erin Abrams, a se..." width="100" height="150" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image by <a href="http://www.daylife.com/source/Getty_Images">Getty Images</a> via <a href="http://www.daylife.com">@daylife</a></dd>
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<p>When most of the adults today were in grade school, it was a different world.  Grade school teachers could discipline the students as they saw fit.  This included a smack in the head, a ruler across the knuckles, and most of us are not sure what happened when someone was sent to the principal.  Corporal punishment is no longer allowed in schools.  As with anything, it very easily got out of hand and sometimes punishments bordered on abuse.  The role of administration was to reinforce what the teachers did or said.  There were very few student rights and for the most part we kept our mouths shut.  Lucky for students today, this is no longer the case.  There are now very specific guidelines on the disciplinary actions taken towards students.</p>
<p>Obviously, the role of the school administrators has changed dramatically.  Not only are they responsible for the actions of the students, they are also directly responsible for the actions of their teachers.  The screening process for teachers today is much more rigorous, and the administration has a huge job. What is the right thing to do?  What are the right questions to ask?  What do I do if there is an incident?  These are all questions school principals ask themselves on a daily basis.</p>
<p>Now there is principalconnections.org.  This site can answer the tough questions.  It is very easy to navigate to different places for professional answers to their questions.  In these days where school violence has gotten out of control, principals and administrators have a daunting responsibility to students and parents, as well as their teachers.  Help is here, the research has been done, the law is noted.  Every principal has a responsibility to protect the students, and at the same time, to trust in his or her faculty and protect their rights as well.  They are striving every day for a safe and educational experience for everyone in the school.</p>
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		<title>The Wide Range of School Administration Topics</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-wide-range-of-school-administration-topics.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-wide-range-of-school-administration-topics.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 23 Nov 2010 12:16:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[No Child Left Behind Act]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=104</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[School administrators confront a number of different responsibilities in their jobs. Few careers present such a wide range of challenges. An administrator must be a surrogate parent, a support team member, an executive, a statistician, a disciplinarian and an educator all at the same time! School administration topics start at the front door. Administrators often [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>School administrators confront a number of different responsibilities in their jobs. Few careers present such a wide range of challenges. An administrator must be a surrogate parent, a support team member, an executive, a statistician, a disciplinarian and an educator all at the same time!</p>
<p>School administration topics start at the front door. Administrators often become the public &#8220;face&#8221; of their schools. They generally handle media contact and community outreach efforts. When parents have complaints, questions or issues, they talk to administrators.</p>
<p>Most administrators also provide administrative support and related assistance to their schools&#8217; educators. When teachers need a helping hand, an interpretation of policy or almost anything else, their first stop is usually at an administrator&#8217;s office!</p>
<p>These days, one of the most important school administration topics involves the collection and delivery of legally required data to students all over the globe. Laws like the so-called &#8220;No Child Left Behind Act&#8221; have created a substantial documentation burden because schools and administrators are responsible for a great deal of the paperwork for hundreds of thousands of children each year. Administrators have additional documentation burdens, too. If you hate paperwork, you should probably avoid a career in school administration as you will be facing lots of it!</p>
<p>School administrators rarely have predictable days. The wide range of job responsibilities and the always unpredictable character of schools make it hard to know what one&#8217;s day will bring. School administration is a challenging profession. The nature of that challenge is one reason why administrators do tend to make more money than rank and file teachers.</p>
<p>Anyone interested in a career in school administration will probably want to have experience as an educator. He or she will also need an appropriate educational background. School administrators generally have advanced degrees. An informative website like onlineeducation.com can provide you with a clearer idea of what&#8217;s required to earn a masters or doctoral degree in Education.</p>
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		<title>Violence Cannot Be Tolerated</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/violence-cannot-be-tolerated.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/violence-cannot-be-tolerated.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:53:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Elementary school]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Head teacher]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence and Abuse]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=129</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Image via Wikipedia School violence used to imply that Johnny hit Joey on the playground. Slapping fights were regular occurrences at schools throughout the country, and the occasional black eye was not unheard of. The principal would pull the kids apart and give each one of them a detention or a punishment of cleaning the [...]]]></description>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Blackeye.JPG"><img title="Black Eye" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/55/Blackeye.JPG/300px-Blackeye.JPG" alt="Black Eye" width="300" height="225" /></a></dt>
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<p>School violence used to imply that Johnny hit Joey on the playground.  Slapping fights were regular occurrences at schools throughout the country, and the occasional black eye was not unheard of.  The principal would pull the kids apart and give each one of them a detention or a punishment of cleaning the blackboards at the end of the day, or no recess for a week.  Mom was rarely called, and usually only when a student talked back to a teacher or the principal.</p>
<p>Fast forward 30 years and school violence has become a major epidemic in our country.  Students in elementary schools are bringing weapons to school, using school supplies as weapons, or just beating each other until ambulances have to be called.  Weekly, sometimes daily we are hearing of violence erupting in our schools on the news.  Angry children are taking out that anger on other students.  Bullying is at an all time high and is not about to disappear.  The so-called Latch Key Kids have no supervision after school, so it is nothing for them to hang around and start something on school grounds.  Gangs are recruiting members as young as fifth grade, and teaching them the violence necessary in order to be &#8220;part of the family.&#8221;</p>
<p>The principals and administrators of our schools have a very important job.  Keeping our schools safe for our children has become a full time job.  The administration of the school is ultimately responsible for making sure that violence stays out of our school.  At principalconnections.org our principals and administrators can get much needed help on the issue of school violence.  Principals can get a clear view on exactly what the law is, and what the responsibility of the administration is.  They can learn what discipline they are allowed to enforce and what to do when that does not work.  We all know today&#8217;s administration can use all the help they can get.</p>
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		<title>Elearners.com Can Help Non-Traditional Students</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/elearners-com-can-help-non-traditional-students.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/elearners-com-can-help-non-traditional-students.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 20 Nov 2010 10:26:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Academic degree]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Associates Degree]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bachelor's degree]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=101</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Image via Wikipedia Taking college courses from home allows students to plan their schedule around their job, kids, and other responsibilities. Students can choose to go full- or part-time each semester, and earn their degree in their own time. These programs are great for the non-traditional student who simply wishes to earn a degree using [...]]]></description>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Online_education_and_Financial_Aid.jpg"><img title="Online education and Financial Aid" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/48/Online_education_and_Financial_Aid.jpg" alt="Online education and Financial Aid" width="130" height="97" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Online_education_and_Financial_Aid.jpg">Wikipedia</a></dd>
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<p>Taking college courses from home allows students to plan their schedule around their job, kids, and other responsibilities. Students can choose to go full- or part-time each semester, and earn their degree in their own time. These programs are great for the non-traditional student who simply wishes to earn a degree using the time they have available in the field of study they’re interested in working in.</p>
<p>There are several different programs available to these students that will allow them to take their courses online, while still being able to access certain extras they may need, such as tutoring, financial aid, and academic counseling. These programs are available through accredited colleges that have created systems that allow the non-traditional student to earn an Associate’or Bachelor’s degree in a chosen field of study. Elearners.com has even put together a list of these accredited schools, and the types of degrees they offer, to help students decide which programs are best for them.</p>
<p>If you’re considering going back to school to earn your degree, you may want to look into these schools and programs for yourself. You’ll want to thoroughly check each one to see if it offers exactly what you need and want, and to discover if there may be a situation in which you’d have to go to a nearby campus or test facility to take your exams. Talk to the academic advisors at the schools you select to find out what the rules and regulations are for attending their online programs.</p>
<p>When you’re determining what program is right for you, or even if going back to school is right for you, elearners.com can help answer questions you may have about being an online adult student. They have many different resources to help you, and your family, along the way.</p>
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		<title>A Principal Role</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/a-principal-role.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/a-principal-role.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 20 Nov 2010 00:53:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Corporal punishment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Head teacher]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[K through 12]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence and Abuse]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=126</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Image by Getty Images via @daylife The principal in a school plays a very important part in our child&#8217;s education. Just as important as reading and writing is in school, so is maintaining order and keeping the place our children go to learn a safe and happy learning environment. To that end, the role of [...]]]></description>
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<dd class="wp-caption-dd zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image by <a href="http://www.daylife.com/source/Getty_Images">Getty Images</a> via <a href="http://www.daylife.com">@daylife</a></dd>
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<p>The principal in a school plays a very important part in our child&#8217;s education.  Just as important as reading and writing is in school, so is maintaining order and keeping the place our children go to learn a safe and happy learning environment.  To that end, the role of our administrators has changed drastically over the years.  Gone are the days of corporal punishment, which I think we all would agree is not a terrible thing.  No longer can the principal literally take discipline into their own hands, using switches or paddles as they see fit.  However, in recent years there has been an epidemic of violence in our schools, and the responsibilities of our administrative staff has never been so important.</p>
<p>The principals and administrators in a school now have an even more difficult path to follow.  The disciplinary acts that can be carried out have changed so much that it is difficult for our administrative staff to know exactly what they can do in a certain situation, and how to effect the best possible outcome.  It is all black and white, there must be proof of a violent act.  If the student with the black eye won&#8217;t say who gave it to them, what is the principal to do?  To help principals and administrators in this regard there is principalconnections.org.  This is a &#8220;go-to&#8221; site for school principals and administration.  It can effectively tell a principal what the roles of administration are, their main responsibilities, how disciplinary acts have changes in the education system and the best way to go about handing a particular situation.</p>
<p>We all know that bullying and school violence are not going to change anytime soon.  It is an age old problem, and one that is not going anywhere.  However, with effective administration, principals who care and really want to provide a safe, violence free environment for our youth, there is help.</p>
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		<title>The Potential Issue of Cyber Bullying with Online Colleges</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-potential-issue-of-cyber-bullying-with-online-colleges.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-potential-issue-of-cyber-bullying-with-online-colleges.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Nov 2010 07:49:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bully]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Distance education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Facebook]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=96</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Image via CrunchBase Bullying is a major issue facing high school and college campuses across the country. It seems as if every day on the news there is a new case of some teenager or college student taking their life because of something that has happened over the Internet. Sometimes it&#8217;s just a simple post [...]]]></description>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://www.crunchbase.com/company/facebook"><img title="Image representing Facebook as depicted in Cru..." src="http://www.crunchbase.com/assets/images/resized/0000/4561/4561v1-max-450x450.png" alt="Image representing Facebook as depicted in Cru..." width="245" height="100" /></a></dt>
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<p>Bullying is a major issue facing high school and college campuses across the country. It seems as if every day on the news there is a new case of some teenager or college student taking their life because of something that has happened over the Internet. Sometimes it&#8217;s just a simple post meant to hurt feelings and sometimes it is a full scale attack. Many people assume that if you head to an online school then the issue is solved. No more bullying correct? The answer to that is no. Online schools such as earnmydegree.com face similar issues that brick and mortar schools do, however, the problem of actually nailing down the victims and the bullies can be harder.</p>
<p>Here&#8217;s an Example:</p>
<p>A student in an online class excels above all the other students. They know all the answers, place higher grades than others and even participate in college lectures. This normally would anger a few students and they would move on, however, with the increased reliance on technologies like Myspace and Facebook to communicate and connect, it almost makes a perfect breeding ground for bullies. The student talked about above faces the possibilities of having the students in their online class post negative messages on these social media outlets, talk about them behind their backs and even start &#8220;hate&#8221; groups for these students. All of these are similar issues that a brick and mortar school faces.</p>
<p>So What Can an Online College Do?</p>
<p>As stated above, the issue can be hard because not many online students are familiar with the administrative staff of an online college. In fact, most students don&#8217;t even know where to turn. The key to making sure online bullying for online college campuses does not happen is to educate students. Educate them on where to go should this happen and what the consequences are for this and it should reduce the problem greatly.</p>
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		<title>Class For Prinicpals</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/class-for-prinicpals.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/class-for-prinicpals.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:52:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teachers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Board of education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Educators]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Head teacher]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[K through 12]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Puerto Rico]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School district]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teacher]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=123</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Image via Wikipedia Teachers use the computer all day long. Some even teach how to use the computer all day long. Computers and the Internet have become an integral part of the learning experience. The role of the teacher is well defined and every teacher knows exactly what is expected of them. That line becomes [...]]]></description>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Icon-Teacher-at-class.jpg"><img title="A black and white icon of a teacher in front o..." src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/36/Icon-Teacher-at-class.jpg/300px-Icon-Teacher-at-class.jpg" alt="A black and white icon of a teacher in front o..." width="300" height="300" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Icon-Teacher-at-class.jpg">Wikipedia</a></dd>
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<p>Teachers use the computer all day long.  Some even teach how to use the computer all day long.  Computers and the Internet have become an integral part of the learning experience.  The role of the teacher is well defined and every teacher knows exactly what is expected of them.  That line becomes quite blurred in the department of discipline.  What is the teacher&#8217;s role in the discipline?  When is it necessary to take the next step?  When does administration get involved?  When the principal has to get involved, what exactly should they do?</p>
<p>Discipline in the school has changed drastically over the years, especially in the education system.  Teachers and administration are not free to enforce the rules any way they please.  There are proper channels to be followed. Everything has to be documented and offenses have to warrant the course of action.  School violence is at a high these days, so the protection of the students is of the highest priority.  The main responsibilities of the principals differ from infraction to infraction.  All principals are striving for a safe environment and the best learning environment for our children.</p>
<p>Principals and administration can find help at principalconnections.org.  Principals have to walk a fine line, making sure not to violate student rights, however using the proper discipline for the incident.  At principalconnections.org school administrators can find ways to keep their schools safer, from classroom monitoring, to the proper way to enforce the discipline to keep the walls of their school safe for everyone.  Here they can define the roles of administration, their main responsibilities and how disciplinary acts have changed in the education system.  There are CD-ROM programs as well as on site advice and tips on the ways to go about making sure violence in their school is kept to a minimum and safety is the most important word of the day.</p>
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		<title>The Life of a School Administrator</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-life-of-a-school-administrator.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-life-of-a-school-administrator.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 18 Nov 2010 00:51:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Educators]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Extracurricular activity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[K through 12]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Professional development]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teacher]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=120</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Image by Getty Images via @daylife The role of an administrator at any school is very important to the organization. He or she is the back bone of the school. Making sure Iâ€™s are doted and Tâ€™s are crossed, so to speak. Somewhat like a Chief of Operations in a major corporation! One of the [...]]]></description>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://www.daylife.com/image/0eNE1EiajA6nA?utm_source=zemanta&amp;utm_medium=p&amp;utm_content=0eNE1EiajA6nA&amp;utm_campaign=z1"><img title="WASHINGTON - AUGUST 18:  Education Secretary A..." src="http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/0eNE1EiajA6nA/150x101.jpg" alt="WASHINGTON - AUGUST 18:  Education Secretary A..." width="150" height="101" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image by <a href="http://www.daylife.com/source/Getty_Images">Getty Images</a> via <a href="http://www.daylife.com">@daylife</a></dd>
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<p>The role of an administrator at any school is very important to the organization. He or she is the back bone of the school. Making sure Iâ€™s are doted and Tâ€™s are crossed, so to speak. Somewhat like a Chief of Operations in a major corporation!</p>
<p>One of the critical roles of the administrator is making sure that the right candidates are placed in the right areas to educate the students. They must look at each candidate closely to see if what they have to offer the school. This goes beyond the prospectsâ€™ having a degree or the number of years of they have been teaching. As the leader of the school, they must also provided assistants to staff members on management of classroom responsibilities and observer how the educators are running the classes. This is so the administrator wonâ€™t be blindsided to what is happening, in case if there are any discrepancies that may occur in the future.</p>
<p>An administrator must be familiar of how their school is run. This is so they will be able to provide information at a moments notice for, interviews, audits, and tours of the facility for others who are inquiring. This includes knowing the handbooks, school requirements for accreditation, and the history of the institution. They are also responsible for having vision on where to take the school long term. Administration comes up with plans to execute to keep the reputation and goals of the establishment so that finest education can be maintained and exceeded. This involves foreseeing budget planes, extra curriculum activities, educational materials, and much more.</p>
<p>With the major amount of responsibilities that the administrator must maintain, it is not an easy task. The majority of the time, they are always in meetings or traveling to keep the school running! In any case with the help of assistants they are able to stay afloat without sinking!</p>
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		<title>Actions for Safer Schools</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/actions-for-safer-schools.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/actions-for-safer-schools.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:50:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Avalon School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Metal detector]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Philadelphia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[State school]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[United States]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=116</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Image via Wikipedia Tougher action is now being taken at schools around the country. In the United States, schools are taking under the consideration of these actions, due to the amount of violence and crime that is happening within the four walls. Not only are the students at risk, the safety of staff members are [...]]]></description>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Nh-students.JPG"><img title="Students of Nan Hua High School gathering in t..." src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/99/Nh-students.JPG/300px-Nh-students.JPG" alt="Students of Nan Hua High School gathering in t..." width="300" height="225" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Nh-students.JPG">Wikipedia</a></dd>
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<p>Tougher action is now being taken at schools around the country. In the United States, schools are taking under the consideration of these actions, due to the amount of violence and crime that is happening within the four walls. Not only are the students at risk, the safety of staff members are being challenged as well!</p>
<p>Reports around the country were requested by principals in the years between 1990 and 2010 for all disciplinary action that was taken against students with non academic related issues. 78 percent of public school actions taken included suspension of the student for a minimal of 5 days. Other measures in the percentage were students being removed from the institutions, resulting in expulsions. This action was taken when students were found with weapons or drugs of any kind. In ten percent of the reports, if after first and second offenses were abused by students after suspension, the next step may call for them to be moved to specialty schools so that students could be dealt with closely.</p>
<p>Prior to the years between 1990 and 2010, administration tended to be willing to work with students, cutting them brakes so that they would be able to maintain their time in school, as well as education. With the height of school shootings and gang violence, a strict policy had to be implemented by schools because of safety issues for students and staff.</p>
<p>Schools are working even harder to make sure that matters donâ€™t get more out of hand; such as putting metal detectors in schools back in the late 1990â€™s. When students were asked how they felt about it, most responded that it looks as though they are not in school, but in prison! Even though their views on this matter were such, many feel that this is necessary for safety so students can get their education.</p>
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		<title>Money Challenges for Administration</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/money-challenges-for-administration.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/money-challenges-for-administration.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 15 Nov 2010 00:49:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[After-school activity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Arts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Extracurricular activity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Funding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[K through 12]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Money]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[United States]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=112</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Image via Wikipedia For a school administrator, one of the hardest choices that must be made is to figure out where to trim the fat! Itâ€™s an everyday process that administrators must make because their job is to save the schoolâ€™s money. This is a challenging task due to the fact that somewhere alone the [...]]]></description>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:US_%2420_Series_2006_Obverse.jpg"><img title="Obverse of the Series 2006 $20 bill" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/79/US_%2420_Series_2006_Obverse.jpg/300px-US_%2420_Series_2006_Obverse.jpg" alt="Obverse of the Series 2006 $20 bill" width="300" height="128" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image via <a href="http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:US_%2420_Series_2006_Obverse.jpg">Wikipedia</a></dd>
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<p>For a school administrator, one of the hardest choices that must be made is to figure out where to trim the fat! Itâ€™s an everyday process that administrators must make because their job is to save the schoolâ€™s money. This is a challenging task due to the fact that somewhere alone the educational line, someone or a group will be affected!</p>
<p>Today, many school administrations are cutting corners to save as much money as they can. In simple terms, they take what is given to them, by the state and the monies are to be distributed so that the school can keep running efficiently. What happens when state funding is being held back?</p>
<p>Unfortunately, the first thing to go might be the arts in schools! Administrations often remove money from this area because they feel that it is extra curricular and it is the least of all other subjects in school. However, when programs such as the arts are cut, it keeps children from expressing themselves and having an outlet for creative activity!</p>
<p>Another area that can be cut by school administration is after school programs, such as sports or aftercare programs. Again, these areas are very important, but when coming down to saving nickels and dimes, the tough choices must be executed. Administratorâ€™s sees it, if extra money is unavailable, the availability of programs are a result of it!</p>
<p>One of the major drawbacks of low funding for administration is teacher layoffs. Yes, just about every state, teachers are laid off because the funds are no longer there to pay them! This causes school administration to lose staff, cut benefits, over crowd classes and have limited resources for children.</p>
<p>This is not an easy task by any means, but at the end of the day, school administrators have to do their job to the best of their abilities.</p>
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		<title>Sexual Violence in Schools</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/sexual-violence-in-schools.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/sexual-violence-in-schools.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 14 Nov 2010 00:49:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[1964 Civil Rights Act]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Employment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Harassment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sexual]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sexual harassment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Violence and Abuse]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=109</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Image via Wikipedia When we think of school violence, we think about shootings or stabbings that have taken place in schools across the country. One factor that has been over looked is that violence comes in many forms other then the obvious. The violence that is running ramped in schools is sexual harassment. What principalâ€™s [...]]]></description>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:TheOffice%28US%292-02.jpg"><img title="Sexual Harassment (The Office)" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/b7/TheOffice%28US%292-02.jpg/300px-TheOffice%28US%292-02.jpg" alt="Sexual Harassment (The Office)" width="300" height="200" /></a></dt>
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<p>When we think of school violence, we think about shootings or stabbings that have taken place in schools across the country. One factor that has been over looked is that violence comes in many forms other then the obvious. The violence that is running ramped in schools is sexual harassment.</p>
<p>What principalâ€™s are taking note of is that sexual harassment is another form of violence that many students are suffering from on a daily. This for of harassment is not just young men pursuing young ladies, but sexual harassment can be degrading oneâ€™s sexual orientation or violating a studentâ€™s body in any way. This has been apart of an ongoing matter that is now being associated with bullying in the school systems.</p>
<p>A twenty percent increase on sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancies have been blamed for this â€œnew violence.â€ Teens are being pressured to have sex through this harassment, causing them to be subject to these issues. What is even more surprising is that two out of five feel that it is normal for this to happen. It has become a part of school life to endure these situations and nothing can be done about!</p>
<p>A step that most schools are making today is to raise awareness about sexual harassment the institution, to alert parents and teachers of this crisis. Some of those steps are; in class discussions about the matter, sending home information for parents to talk with their children, and creating after school programs to help students deal with sexual harassment that the my have experienced. Administration has implemented the same rules for suspension / expulsion, when cases are reported.</p>
<p>Of course this will not be an overnight process, but when we give knowledge to our youth that this is an epidemic that doesnâ€™t have to be accepted, and then do we begin to win the fight over sexual harassment.</p>
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		<title>Instilling a Future Orientation in Students</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/instilling-a-future-orientation-in-students.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/instilling-a-future-orientation-in-students.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Nov 2010 09:52:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teachers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[High school]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=99</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As an administrator, one of your foremost duties is to help your teachers shape their students into the kind of people who will produce ample value for society. It may not seem very kind to say it that way, but this is the ultimate purpose of education; we are building the citizens who will rule [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As an administrator, one of your foremost duties is to help your teachers shape their students into the kind of people who will produce ample value for society. It may not seem very kind to say it that way, but this is the ultimate purpose of education; we are building the citizens who will rule the world tomorrow. If this is a mission you&#8217;ll take on with sleeves rolled up and eyes wide open, you&#8217;ll do a lot of good for your profession. If it isn&#8217;t, you might want to get on EducationforAdults.com and seek out something a little bit more in line with your mindset. There is neither a quick nor an easy way through this.</p>
<p>The purpose behind going to school is to take the present orientation out of students, and get them conditioned to doing things which will only result in a reward in the future. Sometimes the reward may not come for years at a time, such as when the student is in high school and wants to become a doctor. After all, it could be fifteen years or more before the high rolling years begin. A person who expects to work today and be paid today will generally find themselves at the lowest end of the earnings scale.</p>
<p>But it goes beyond merely making money. Money has been described by some as the receipt for the value that one provides to society. What you offer the world is compensated accordingly, at least in theory. But a person can only accomplish so much with any given day. This is why the ability to delay gratification hinges on the ability to see through and beyond this moment. By nature, we are all present oriented- being future oriented is a learned trait that is accomplished in the best of times through school. Show the students rewards over time, and hopefully they&#8217;ll get the message.</p>
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		<title>The Many Tasks an Educational Administrator Has</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-many-tasks-an-educational-administrator-has.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/the-many-tasks-an-educational-administrator-has.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 06 Nov 2010 15:22:33 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Administration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teachers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Board of education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School district]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teacher]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=106</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Image by Getty Images via @daylife In school districts all across the country there are educational administrators that are on the school district&#8217;s payroll. While it might be a common part of the school system very few people know exactly what an educational administrator does. An educational administrator had dozens of different roles in the [...]]]></description>
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://www.daylife.com/image/0d1n051flN0IA?utm_source=zemanta&amp;utm_medium=p&amp;utm_content=0d1n051flN0IA&amp;utm_campaign=z1"><img title="LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 14:  Special needs chi..." src="http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/0d1n051flN0IA/150x100.jpg" alt="LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 14:  Special needs chi..." width="150" height="100" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd zemanta-img-attribution" style="font-size: 0.8em;">Image by <a href="http://www.daylife.com/source/Getty_Images">Getty Images</a> via <a href="http://www.daylife.com">@daylife</a></dd>
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<p>In school districts all across the country there are educational  administrators that are on the school district&#8217;s payroll. While it might  be a common part of the school system very few people know exactly what  an educational administrator does.</p>
<p>An educational administrator had dozens of different roles in the school  system. Every day their role and what they are trying to achieve  changes. One day an administrator might be working with parents and the  school board and the next day they could be enforcing the rules and  holding detention. The roles of the administrator are many and often  seem limitless.</p>
<p>Here is a look at some of the things an educational administrator does  so that you can better understand their role in the school system.</p>
<p>Teacher Evaluator. One of the main roles of an educational administrator  is to evaluate the teachers of the school system and make sure that  they are teaching at the level that they should. This requires that an  administrator have a general idea of the various teaching strategies  that are available and making sure that teachers are using what is best  for that particular class.</p>
<p>Mediator. The administrator plays as connecting factor between teachers,  parents, school board and themselves. They make sure that everyone has a  common goal and tries to take all sides into account when figuring out  which way they want the school to go.</p>
<p>Disciplinarian. The educational administrator enforces the school&#8217;s  rules and regulations and ensures that all students are following the  rules as they should. While a teacher has control of the classroom, an  administrator can be called in to handle extreme cases or any problems  that might arise while not in the classroom.</p>
<p>As you can tell there are dozens of roles that an educational administrator has within their particular school.</p>
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		<title>Principles in Private Schools</title>
		<link>http://www.principalconnections.org/principles-in-private-schools.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.principalconnections.org/principles-in-private-schools.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 05 Nov 2010 10:42:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[School Violence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Students]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Private school]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[State school]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Student]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.principalconnections.org/?p=94</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It does not matter if you are a principal in a private school or a public school; most parents want their children to do well. They want them to get the best education possible. They want them to prepare for the future. Many times parents do too much. They want to plan out their child’s [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>It does not matter if you are a principal in a private school or a public school; most parents want their children to do well.  They want them to get the best education possible.  They want them to prepare for the future.  Many times parents do too much.  They want to plan out their child’s whole education and career path.  Even though it is probably not encouraged by educators that parents are that involved in their child’s education, it does happen.  And even if the student has plans of their own – which most do – the parents will feel better if they feel like they have all the answers to every education scenario.<br />
The reason I bring this up is simple.  As a principle, you need to know the answers to these parents’ questions.  You need to know what needs to be done to get their child where they want them to get with their education.  And believe me, sometimes this goes beyond educating the parent on college prep classes or how to get scholarships to a good college.  I ran into the scenario once when a parent had his child finished with school, into graduate school and on the way to completing their MBA.  And yes, they wanted me to know how to make sure their high school child could get to that point.<br />
One thing I had to research was the path to the MBA.  I discovered that the child will have to take an admissions test – the GMAT – which would assess their math and verbal skills and ensure they can handle graduate school.  To make sure they pass that test, I told the parent about the <a href="http://www.knewton.com/gmat/" target="_blank">GMAT prep courses</a> that were offered online.  I passed this information off to the parent and let the parent begin their research for their child.   And the funny thing is, that child left high school, went to Europe and then became a world-class chef.</p>
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