Limitations in standardized test use with Hispanic students are summarized and recent research developments supporting use of testing and assessment as tools for promoting learning are examined. Assisted performance and dynamic assessment are discussed in the context of individual education plans and a test-train-test cycle. (Author/MSE)

Provides an overview of litigation in which courts have addressed the extent to which costs can be considered in determining appropriate programs for children with disabilities. (MLF)

A teacher provides a set of key components used by her school district to aid teachers and administrators in developing Individual Educational Plans (IEP) for handicapped students. (ZWH)

A study of adapted physical education (APE) practices in rural Wyoming revealed that many school districts did not offer APE programs; minimal, if any, specialization was required of APE teachers; larger districts were more likely to employ APE teachers; and there was considerable need for APE teacher training. Contains survey questionnaire and…

Preliminary data comparing individualized education program (IEP) development in three demonstration and three nondemonstration sites show that demonstration sites had significantly more individuals attending IEP meetings, more service options on the IEP, and more best-practice elements included in the IEP. Suggests that the demonstration site…

Discusses integration of students with severe disabilities, noting that programing is superior in integrated settings as illustrated by students' Individualized Education Programs. Various assessment tools help determine the extent to which best practices are being adhered to while attending to the individualized programing needs of students with…

Provides an overview of issues and practice associated with the integration of handicapped students into regular education settings. Emphasizes the differences between mainstreaming and federally mandated provision of educational services in the "least restrictive environment." Discusses the changing roles of elementary school teachers…

This study compared 16 students with either a less or more severe disability from elementary schools using the "full inclusion" model and 16 similar students from schools using the special class model. The study analyzed individualized education plans and also compared program quality and student outcome variables. Significant…

Studies how sex bias influences the process of preparing and implementing individual education plans (IEPs) under the Education for the Handicapped Act. Conversations with 20 mothers of disabled children reveal the multiple effects of bias and result in recommendations for improved IEPs. (SLD)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1990 stresses procedural safeguards regarding special education identification, placement, or services. Reviewed a sample of Illinois due process appeal decisions and concluded that the system appears to be serving Illinois educators and parents reasonably well. (20 references) (MLF)

A study of 73 families of children (ages 3-29) with disabilities investigated what special educators could do to be more sensitive to family needs. Recommendations include listening to parents, developing effective communication among parents and professionals, increasing knowledge about disabilities, demonstrating sensitivity and respect, and…

This article discusses legal requirements for developing functional behavioral assessment and behavioral intervention plans, especially as they pertain to disciplinary actions. This discussion is followed by an outline of elements related to behavioral intervention planning with specific guidelines for school personnel who seek to put such plans…

A new teacher in a self-contained classroom for six kindergarten students with autism describes the challenges of beginning a new program in her school, planning instruction with the new state instructional standards in mind, being scrutinized by parents, and coordinating documentation of progress and development of Individualized Education…

Clarifies issues surrounding inclusion and describes the implementation of an appropriate educational program for an 11-year-old student with autism entering middle school. Discusses collaborative efforts of school staff, importance of shared leadership roles, adherence to appropriate due process, and analysis of the instructional environment in…

This article examines requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (1997) regarding participation of students with disabilities in state- and district-wide assessments and access to the general curriculum. It considers implications for change in school district procedures concerning evaluation and reevaluation, Individualized…