Here is a Table of Contents for the May/June 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

• The politics of education: Erosion of local control
  by Jim Nowlan
  Understanding the present state of education in Illinois requires a look back at the way federal and state mandates have eaten into control seated with local school boards.
  Sidebar: Notable points in Illinois history

• Pondering development of next year's budget
  by Walter H. Warfield
  When executed properly, budget development becomes a powerful tool for sound fiscal management as well as a road map to achieve district needs.

• Finding a balance, focus for board work
  by John Cassel and Barbara B. Toney
  Two IASB staff members explain the value of the IASB Code of Conduct, a statement of Opportunities and Expectations and Foundational Principles of Effective Governance for school boards

• Is college the new high school?
  by Richard W. Smelter
  Increasing outsourcing of jobs may lead to a "dumbing down" of standards that could affect colleges all the way down to kindergarten.

• Investigation reveals PTELL contradictions
  by Mary N. Parker
  Fusing data with opinions provides a clearer picture of the impact that the Property Tax Extension Limitation Law is having on school districts.

• Farmland assessments need not be a mystery
  by William H. Phillips
  Although board members may know that a portion of their property tax money comes from farmland, the way that property is assessed can often seem like a mystery.

• Practical PR: It takes a whole village to educate children.
  by Jay Wojcik

• Ask the staff: Members-only website personalizes services
  answered by Jennifer Nelson