Reports the results of a successful reading project which reduced the drop-out rate and increased the reading levels of high school students in Tolleson, Arizona. (RB)

Describes the Art in Arizona Towns Project, through which rural community colleges sponsor three- to six-day visits/residencies by performing artists who perform, lecture, and conduct classes and workshops for schools and community groups. Discusses the project's benefits for the rural communities and the artists, and logistical and financial…

Evolution of Northern Arizona University's new Center for Excellence in Education (the former College of Education) is traced and its interaction with the university, schools, and public agencies is illustrated through discussion of two special education training programs. An overview is provided of the numerous changes resulting from the…

Profiles three program awards for exemplary rural special education practices. Describes an Arizona program that allows teachers to pursue advanced training without quitting their jobs, an Idaho program of work experience and transitional services for special education students, and a Virginia program for normalization of students labeled…

Three Arizona programs aim to train culturally and linguistically diverse general and special educators who understand the needs and strengths of rural communities. Native Americans and Mexican Americans from rural areas who want to work with special needs populations are recruited, as well as whites. Many are paraprofessionals, working full time…