Research on teacher professional development (PD) reveals teachers do not implement what they learn at professional development with consistency or fidelity. This quantitative predictive correlational study examined whether special education teaching experience, administrator support through time and planning, administrator support through…

The purpose of this article is to review current research about the struggles facing effective inclusive schooling and the role the principal plays in bringing about improved equity, access, and achievement in K-12 public schools. Also, we examine the leadership pipeline and how principal preparation and professional development should address…

The demand of providing adequate services for students with disabilities has evolved over the years requiring districts to provide free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. As districts are held increasingly accountable for meeting these demands, the roles and responsibilities of the school principal has become…

Based on the importance of principals' roles in supporting students with disabilities and other diverse learners, Project Forum at the National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE), in collaboration with LeadScape, held a policy forum on this topic as part of its cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Education,…

This paper presents the recommendations by the Council of Administrators of Special Education, Inc. (CASE) for the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). CASE is a non-profit professional organization which provides leadership and support to approximately 5,000 members by influencing policies and practices to improve…

This fall in schools across the nation, students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) will experience educational opportunities that, until recently, were denied to them. Because the No Child Left Behind Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ensure that students with ASD are included in the student body, principals must make…

Reports on survey of 566 mostly secondary school principals and assistant principals to determine their professional development needs to improve the implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Finds that while most principals understand the basic elements of IDEA, many had little or no knowledge of the legislation.…

This paper provides an overview of U.S. Department of Education programs authorized and funded under federal law. It includes information as well on the laboratories, centers, and other facilities funded by the Department that provide important resources for education. Readers will find funding information, contact information, and a web site for…