Individualized education programs (IEPs) reflect the spirit of individualized instruction that lies at the heart of special education. Quality annual goal statements, which propel the implementation of special education programming, use clear language to communicate measurable, meaningful, and standards-aligned expectations to all members of the…

Solve serious behavior challenges in K-8 classrooms with this easy-to-use book, the first practical guide to the research-proven Prevent-Teach-Reinforce (PTR) model. Developed by some of the most respected authorities on positive behavior support, this innovative model gives school-based teams a five-step plan for reducing problems unresolved by…

Establishing a scouting program for handicapped students involves determining student interest, securing leadership, determining the extent of integration, and selecting and relating activities to the school curriculum. (CL)

The article provides, in outline form, a program evaluation plan for special education program developers and evaluators. The plan has a three part conceptual framework involving the nature and needs of students, the goals and objectives of the program, and the match between the two. (DB)

Local school systems, Local Education Agencies [LEAs], and universities, Institutions of Higher Education [IHEs], work together in a variety of ways in the initial preparation and ongoing professional development of teachers, although it is difficult to ascertain the number of LEA/IHE partnerships. These relationships typically allow for a…

The report describes activities and results of the second year of the Special Education Planning Model (SEPM), designed to help planners and policymakers estimate special education program needs and costs. SEPM uses a computer simulation based on users' assumptions and priorities in such areas as incidence rates, handicapping conditions to be…

A high school teacher describes efforts to develop a comprehensive gifted education program while recognizing political realities. The program emphasized use of before-school and after-school periods rather than pull-out, addressed the burdens rather than blessings of high capability, focused on the underachieving gifted, and tried to avoid…

The responsibilities and duties of administrators in special education are examined, particularly with regard to mainstreaming. Knowledge of disabilities, educational trends, and specific agencies and community services is necessary as well as an understanding of the legal requirements of P.L. 94-142 (The Education for All Handicapped Children…

Discussing faculty role in planning and implementing P.L. 94-142, this article presents a model for maximizing faculty leadership by becoming familiar with the law's provisions and school district policies and procedures and by establishing a committee composed of all concerned (principal, parents, teachers, support staff) to plan and evaluate the…

The article defines the term, "transition," discusses the types of transitions that occur during early childhood special education, explores the rationale for studying and planning such transitions, and identifies transition issues and procedures. Tables offer data on critical events in rearing a handicapped family member, commercially available…

Educators are encouraged to build advocacy for gifted education through the program itself by demonstrating the high quality products of participating students, and through continued commitment to public relations. Factors common to programs that have survived the economic downturn in New England are identified, including sustained advocacy…

This organizational kit is intended to help high school clubs associated with the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) get started in their mission of introducing students to careers in special education. Topics discussed include: getting started, association with CEC, setting goals for the high school club, CEC's belief statements, suggested…

An introduction of "A Suggested Guide for Developing Vocational Programs for Disadvantaged Students" and the five criteria described for identifying the disadvantaged student are offered in the hope comments will be obtained contributing to increased usefulness of the document when it is completed. (Author/BP)

The final report describes activities and products of a 3-year project to prepare private sector volunteers to become actively involved in special education through a networking system of industry-education partnerships. Using a trainer of trainers model, the project conducted workshops and produced a training package which includes a program…

The paper recommends that young children with disabilities be placed in preschool classes with normally developing children whenever possible. Significant benefits are cited in the areas of social, emotional, and communication development when children with handicapping conditions are educated in settings with their nonhandicapped peers. Four…