This issue of Principal is all about early learning, exploring structures principals can use to help develop an effective continuum of learning for pre-K-3 students. Taken together, these articles will help you consider the effect of both an aligned early learning curriculum and more significant arts integration on your own student population, especially for children at risk for underachievement. You'll also find useful web resources to help your school focus on early learning.

This September/October issue is also joined by its arts-themed supplement, Champion Creatively Alive Children, full of creative articles for K-8 principals.

Bright and Early

Sam Oertwig and Sharon Ritchie

Tools for providing a seamless education experience for pre-K-3 learners.

It’s Playtime!

Joan Almon

The value of play in early education, and how to get teachers on board.

(Article available to the public.)

Building a Foundation for Literacy and Learning

Kathy Ward-Cameron

Early literacy and rigorous early childhood curriculum puts students on the path to success.

The Power of Pre-K

Rebecca Stephens

This Michigan school supports early learners through a unified, pre-K-3 umbrella approach.

(Article available to the public,)

FEATURES

Collaboration Keys for English-language Learners

In this Q&A, Maureen Keithley reveals the importance of collaboration between ESL/bilingual and classroom teachers.

Going Green

Fred Barch

A Florida principal describes his green elementary school and provides tips others can use to “go green.”

IN EVERY ISSUE

From the Editor

A Creative, Early Start

Kaylen Tucker

(Article available to the public.)

Snapshots

Brain-based strategies, energizing staff, and buzzword

(Article available to the public.)

Parents & Schools

Harmonious Parent Relationships

Christy Keeler and Victoria Kilbury

Practitioner’s Corner

Improving Math Instruction With Content-based Coaching

Carolyn L. White

Raising the Bar

Raising Expectations: 7 Strategies

Niki P. Fryou

Principal’s Bookshelf

The 6 Keys to Teacher Engagement: Unlocking the Doors to Top Teacher Performance

By Cathie E. West

—Reviewed by Jacie Maslyk

Collaborative School Leadership: Practice Strategies for Principals

By Ron Nash and Kathleen Hwang

—Reviewed by Don Sternberg

The Reflective Principal

Support Eases Family-Work Challenges

Laura Griffith

Ten to Teen

Elementary Tactics to Ease Transition Stress

Indra Bullock

Speaking Out

The Value of Teacher Evaluation

Louis F. Cicchinelli

(Article available to the public.)

It’s the Law

Staff Email and Social Networking: Handle With Care

Perry A. Zirkel

Postscript

Thinking P-3

Gail Connelly

(Article available to the public.)