Improvements in vocational education for the disabled since the Perkins Act include provision of supplemental services, vocational evaluation/assessment, and inservice training. Currently, problems remain in providing services to rural students, locating matching funds, implementing the least restrictive environment requirement, and training the…

Curriculum-based vocational assessment (CBVA) determines the appropriate vocational program placement for middle school special needs students, monitors progress, and assists transition. The Practical Arts Evaluation System at Shawnee Mission Schools (Kansas) is a CBVA that uses skills in business, home economics, and technology education. (SK)

The author states that, as a result of the Carl Perkins Vocational Education Act, she sees a strong possibility that vocational evaluation will come to be offered not only to special needs students, but to all students. A flow chart illustrating the vocational evaluation process and describing each step is included. (CT)

Many small farmers are being displaced and forced to change both career and life-style. Vocational education and related services can do much to help prepare them for these changes. Major needs include (1) job assessment, (2) career counseling and placement, (3) training, and (4) support services, including financial help. (CH)