The use of paraprofessionals in general education classrooms has been increasing due to inclusion of students with disabilities into least restrictive environments (LRE). Paraprofessionals are hired by schools to work with students with disabilities and assist them in special and general education classrooms. The Individuals with Disabilities…

Paraprofessionals are critical to special education service delivery in inclusive classrooms where they are used to support teachers in reading instruction. This qualitative case study examines the use of paraprofessionals in reading instruction in an adolescent reading program. The study focuses on their roles, training, and the feedback…

In large numbers of elementary and secondary schools across the United States teachers are being called upon to provide support to colleagues through a process called "instructional coaching." Despite widespread implementation of this role, resulting in part from federal initiatives, there is little consensus regarding its operational…

Effective school leadership, in the form of a dedicated, skilled principal, is a key element in creating and maintaining high quality schools. Improving school leadership is particularly important for poorly performing schools. The passage of the federal "No Child Left Behind" legislation and Michigan's Education YES! School…

Subject qualification for teachers in special education is a requirement that comes from the federal No Child Left Behind Act and the reauthorized Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Both laws require states to define what makes a highly qualified teacher. Meeting the standard may be a particular challenge for special education…

Professionals with expertise in assessment and diverse learners are in demand to assist in developing and implementing large-scale assessment and accountability systems. This article highlights aspects of current federal legislation that pertain to the development of these systems, describes the areas of expertise and unique perspectives of…

This article deals with the current situation of educational assistants now being required by the No Child Left Behind Act to have at least two years of higher education or an associates degree, or to meet rigorous quality standards and demonstrate academic skills and knowledge. In this article, the author presents views from a superintendent,…

The primary goal of the American Federation of Teachers' (AFT) Redesigning Schools to Raise Achievement (RSRA) project is to build capacity at the state, district, school, and classroom levels to improve student achievement to meet the goals of the 2001 No Child Left Behind Act. This checklist highlights some of the opportunities and support…