Here is a Table of Contents for the January/February 2009 issue of Illinois School Board Journal. Highlighted articles are available here in full-text form. For other articles get in touch with:

IASB Publications
2921 Baker Drive
Springfield 62703
217/528-9688, extension 1131

• Coming up short finding good teachers
  by Donna McCaw and Darlos Mummert
  School districts will need to overcome at least nine obstacles if they are to fill teacher shortage areas in Illinois.

• Lincoln's words define board leadership well
  by Linda Dawson
  Everyone's definition of leadership is a little bit different, but Abraham Lincoln's words provide a good framework for thought.

• 'Con-Con' lost, so now what?
  by Joseph Matula
  A former school superintendent airs his opinion on a fix for school funding.

• National Board Certification: Too important to ignore
  by Jana Hunziker
  Illinois has a strong system of support in place to assist teachers in reaching this pillar of accomplishment during their career.

• Using Good to Great to rethink planning
  by Joseph M. Porto
  Avoca SD 37 found a way to connect the philosophy of author Jim Collins with strategic planning for a more effective process.

• Is your district truly aligned with focus?
  by Marsha L. Jackson
  The challenge of aligning the district into a focus on increased student achievement begins with the school board and the superintendent.

• Practical PR: Never underestimate the value of applause.
  by Teri Wood

• Ask the staff: Legislature extends pilot on hiring retired teachers
  The question for this issue is answered by Ben Schwarm, IASB's associate executive director for governmental relations.