The Principal’s Office is taking a break from its usual lineup of heavy-hitting topics for one of the most popular features since the column’s inception –– the Writing Quiz (this time in the form of a spelling test). more

In last week's column, I made the case for more time in the classroom. Based on the research, eight powerful arguments were presented for adding more instructional time. The case for maintaining the status quo, however, is just as compelling. more

One of the more recent controversies raging in education is whether and how to extend the school day and even the school year. Most children spend about six hours a day in class. There are proposals to lengthen that time anywhere from an hour to two or more. One variation involves weekend school, particularly for those students who have fallen behind in their studies. more

Talk about timeliness. Last week's column, "Responding to a Trio of Tragedies," was followed by three more incidents this week: a principal held hostage, resulting in his school going into lockdown; a 13-year-old boy committing suicide in the Bronx; and a report that two-thirds of all middle school students say they have been bullied. In each case, there was no outlet for rage. It is incumbent on us to prevent anger from escalating to that point. This week, I will examine a number of the anti-bullying programs that are proliferating in the schools, from the elementary to even the college levels. more