The Back To School Primer

INSIDE

CLOTHES Dress codes and uniforms may stifle expression, but they may also build confidence and allow students to concentrate on their work

SAFETY It takes a whole school to keep violence in check. How teachers, police and kids can create a place where students are free from fear--and free to learn

TECHNOLOGY This fall parents in many schools will have a new way of checking in on their child's news and needs--via the Web

HOME SCHOOLING Overall, the outcome has been favorable for the growing ranks of children educated at home by their parents

SEPARATION Saying goodbye can be tough, but there are ways to increase the sweetness and reduce the sorrow of parting

COLLEGE PREP It's never too early to start envisioning the possibilities and payoffs of higher education

BOOKS Three that could prove useful as your kids return to school