Studied beyond students' failing scores on a state reading assessment to investigate the needs of struggling students and implications for policy. Results for 108 students in 17 elementary schools suggest that scores on state tests mask distinctive and multifaceted patterns of students'reading abilities that require dramatically different…

Examined the relationship between state-mandated testing and teachers' beliefs and practices through a review of the literature. Findings suggest that a relationship between state-mandated testing and teachers' beliefs does exist, but testing does not appear to be an exclusive or primary lever for change. (SLD)

Analyzed the achievement gap between Limited English Proficient (LEP) and English proficient (EP) students in California in the context of the state's Proposition 227, which mandated English immersion programs. Analyses indicate that although scores have risen overall, the achievement gap between LEP and EP students does not appear to be narrowing…

Used data from a state report card to determine which variables characterize bivariate and multivariate relationships between school quality indicator variables and academic status in high and low socioeconomic status schools and high and low achievement schools. Data from 1,319 schools provide information that may help meet the needs of at-risk…

This article discusses the underemployment of individuals with visual impairments and technological barriers to employment. It then presents an overview of legislation, public and private rehabilitation agency programs, and federal agency programs that have an impact on the distribution and use of assistive technology to individuals with…

Details the design, financial support, organizational structure, and evolution of a program to facilitate the automation of small public libraries in Massachusetts and to promote resource sharing among those libraries. A sidebar by Governor Dukakis expresses his views on the role and importance of libraries. (MES)

South Carolina's requirement that school districts identify and serve artistically gifted/talented students in grades 3-12 has led the State Department of Education to develop support activities, as establishing curriculum guidelines, showcasing successful programs, and creating leadership roles for the South Carolina Arts Commission and the…

At the aggregate level it appears that the state share of public school financing has shifted from parity to dominance. However, there is substantial diversity among states. Through a synthesis of the literature on fiscal federalism, political culture, state politics, and public policy, explanations are offered for this interstate divergence.…

The educational reform strategies of Texas, California, and South Carolina are examined as they relate to reform outcomes. The current effort toward educational excellence must shift its focus from regulation and compliance monitoring to mobilization of institutional capacity. (SLD)

Addresses issues relating to acquisition of and access to government information. Information being made available in new formats is discussed, including CD-ROM and other electronic formats; Illinois state and federal depository library programs are described; and cataloging government documents is considered. (LRW)

The total population of individuals with mental retardation/developmental disabilities in state institutions has steadily decreased since 1967 along with the number of operating state institutions. Projections indicate that decreases will continue. A graph summarizes total state institution closures between 1960 and 1995, and a table lists…

Articles describe elements of Oregon's' tech prep program: "New Software Helps Students Visualize a Career Path" (Buhl); "Bridge Construction Ahead" (Roach); and "To Track Students, Oregon Goes to the Bar" (Dutson). (JOW)

A table presents, by state and by year (1988 and 1990), the percentages of individuals reported by mental retardation/developmental disability agencies as being served in segregated and integrated employment programs. Accompanying text analyzes increases in individuals served in integrated employment from 1988 to 1990 and increases in total…

The mother of an exceptionally gifted six-year-old boy describes her frustrating experiences attempting to obtain appropriate education for her son. Minnesota's failure to commit resources to support gifted students is criticized, and the boy's problems with self-esteem, a different learning style, and distractibility are examined. (JDD)

The growing population of deinstitutionalized persons with physical, mental, and emotional disabilities is described, some of their information needs are examined, methods of providing library services are suggested, and a rationale for community outreach is provided. The state program in Rhode Island is outlined. (22 references) (EAM)