The paper traces the apparently conflicting trends toward elimination of special classes for handicapped students (mainstreaming) and the movement toward special programs for gifted and talented students. Issues related to identification and labeling are examined, and the importance of flexible definitions for both retardation and giftedness is…

The paper distinguishes American and Canadian applications of the terms "mainstreaming" and "integration" in relation to placement of exceptional children in settings which foster interaction between them and their non-handicapped peers such as regular classes in neighborhood schools. The two terms are seen to represent…

The paper interprets the legal meaning and application of the "least restrictive environment" (LRE) principle in the education of handicapped, and particularly deaf children. The role of the Department of Education in interpreting the intent of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, is reviewed with emphasis on the "core…

This conference panel presentation includes five papers on the implications of inclusive education for gifted and talented children. "The Case for Ability Grouping of Gifted Students" (Carolyn Yewchuk) summarizes research results showing that greatest gains were found in programs that grouped high ability children together and provided a…

This paper uses research and propositions to argue that staff development funds provided under Chapter 1 of the Education Consolidation Improvement Act of 1981 be used to integrate understanding of the special needs and prospects of and for Chapter 1 students throughout a school. Rather than isolate staff development opportunities within a Chapter…

The mother of a deaf child recounts her family's experience from her daughter's infancy to her successful adjustment and high achievement in elementary school. Worries during the child's infancy and reaction to the diagnosis at 18 months are documented, as are the mourning process and choosing an educational approach, in this case mainstreaming.…