This article discusses components of instruction for gifted students that stress real-world-based, school-to-work transition learning. Student needs are noted such as multi-potentiality, personal expectations versus those of others, and pressure to conform. Recommendations address mentoring, career education, self-determination, leadership skills,…

Discussion of requirements of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) under the 1997 amendments to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act examines key components of the IEP, who constitutes the IEP team, roadblocks to effective use of the IEP, the top 10 common problems in IEPs, making the most of the IEP, transition planning, and…

Origins of the criterion of the next environment (CNE) are examined for its continuing applicability to mainstreaming and integration of young disabled children, in light of changes in kindergarten classrooms, commitment to integrated education for all students with disabilities, collaborative partnerships, and instructional support services.…

The article describes typical conceptual problems that limit adolescents and young adults with learning disabilities in their efforts to become financially responsible. In a case study format, five money management problems are presented and resolved, including organizing financial records, budgeting, reconciling bank statements, and dividing…

Eight papers outline the nature of the present federally funded effort to improve the evaluation data gathered by programs for the transition of handicapped adolescents to higher education or work. Evaluation research, program evaluation flexibility, and professional standards are considered. Two other evaluation studies consider international…

Interviews with parents of 14 students with disabilities examined the support parents received during their child's transition to an integrated educational placement. Parents consistently expressed satisfaction with integration and professional and personal support received. Parents stressed local school district commitment, an individualized…

A teacher training program has been developed at the University of North Texas, based on the identified transition needs of students with behavioral disorders and the knowledge/skills required by the educator. Participants earn a master's degree in teaching students with behavioral disorders with a specialization in transition. (Author/DB)

The transformation of a large, private, church-affiliated provider of residential services for individuals with mental retardation from an institutionally based to a community-based service system is described. Factors influencing the decision to close the 200-person residential facility, guidelines followed during the transition, and evidence of…

Explores how secondary transition initiatives for students with disabilities have influenced the implementation of secondary curriculum and preparation of secondary educators, recommending that to prepare all secondary students for their futures, secondary educators must acquire a knowledge base in vocational values and domains, technological…

The editors of this journal comment on an article by John Johnson and Frank Rusch (EC 606 176), which reported that few of the recommended "best practices" in transitional services are actually supported by empirical data. The editorial urges greater empirical investigation in the field of career development, especially research on "best…

Discusses the introduction of languages other than English (LOTE) into primary schools in Australia, focusing on curriculum planning, classroom methodology, and student transition from primary to secondary language programs. Emphasizes the need to break down the barriers between primary and secondary second language instruction. (15 references)…

Examines whether some of the most common assessment tools used in foster care programs are capable of identifying young peoples' competencies, strengths, and weakness. Describes the limited role assessment presently plays in foster care and its potential as a policy tool to promote accountability and interest in the independent living skills of…

Discusses changes in leaving care in England and Wales, based on a survey of young people leaving the care of social service departments that examined diversity of care leavers; care careers; age at independence; living out of care; and after-care support. Summarizes key policy and practice issues, and outlines new directions for practice and…

A New York school district was forced to consider a grade-level reorganization or possible school closing, primarily resulting from severe economic pressures. Describes the advantages and disadvantages of reorganizing 2 K-5 elementary schools into a K-2 primary school and a 3-5 intermediate school. Cites four basic reasons frequently offered to…

A 13-week developmental studies course offered at an Australian college and designed to help disadvantaged women make the transition to higher education, focused on both academic and nonacademic requirements for successful college study. Participants experienced significant changes in styles of learning and decision making. (MSE)