Based on an extensive literature search, this paper identifies key actions school administrators may take regarding systems that limit or avoid student referrals for special education services. Findings indicate that referrals may be limited by early intervention strategies and overall improvement of the mainstream educational system. Includes 93…

The demands that music classes make on students may be very complex, even at the elementary level, and educators responsible for mainstreaming educable mentally retarded or learning disabled students should examine music programs carefully before deciding that they are appropriate mainstreaming environments. Music teachers should be involved in…

The study reviewed application of the Myklebust Learning Quotient Method of identifying learning disabilities (LD) in the Macomb (Illinois) community school district from 1980 to 1987. The learning quotient (LQ) is a ratio of actual achievement to expected achievement. The Macomb program established ability estimates by use of the Wechsler…

Analysis of data from 49 states reveals that the types of formulas used by the states for funding special education are not related to the percentage of mildly disabled children served in regular educational settings but are related to the percentages of mentally retarded and learning disabled children served. (PGD)

As school communities become more diverse, making decisions regarding discipline will continue to be difficult. However, providing appropriate discipline for special education students is essential in order to maintain an effective learning climate. This article walks readers through a hypothetical situation in which a principal must make a…

This report provides, in textual and tabular forms, information on the role of ethnicity in special education identification and placement in Illinois. Comparison of the ethnic composition of the total public elementary and secondary education population and of students receiving special education services indicated some disproportions. White…

Various federal and state laws, regulations, and policies influence whether a low-achieving reader is categorized as "disadvantaged" or "disabled," and consequently what instructional interventions are provided. Low-achieving readers are being referred to special education at high rates while the number of eligible students…

This handbook for regular and special education teachers, diagnosticians, administrators, parents, and others involved in the development and implementation of individualized education programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities, focuses on both the intent and spirit of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Chapters cover the…