The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the systemic change process and strategies used by key stakeholders within a local education agency when they changed from the traditional discrepancy model for learning disabilities identification to the Response to Intervention (RTI) model. The results of this study suggest that the change to…

Discusses the critical role of the early interventionist in working with young children with Down syndrome and their families. Reviews physical problems that the children may have, including growth and dental problems, medical disorders, and medical problems that need monitoring. (CR)

The whole language approach to literacy parallels the acquisition of oral language, which enables speech-language pathologists to assume leadership roles in such literacy programs. Aspects of whole language programs are discussed, including language, both oral and written; assessment and planning; service delivery; intervention; and the oral…

A survey of 73 school districts in British Columbia (Canada) evaluated availability of occupational therapy (OT) services, the most important aspects of OT evaluation, OT treatment and services in general, additional training needed by occupational therapists, demographic information on therapists, and therapists' current roles and functions. (DB)

The role of an "Educational Consultant" at the Cochlear Implant Center of the Manhattan (New York) Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital involves assisting in implant candidate selection; acting as a liaison to local education agencies; interviewing parents; visiting the child's school; demonstrating classroom listening activities; and monitoring the child's…

This monograph presents a synthesis of the literature on the educational tools and procedures used with students who have severe intellectual disabilities. The review focuses on how: (1) the goals of education for students with severe intellectual disabilities are consistent with the educational goals of all students; (2) current school reform…

This volume on vocational assessment is written from an educational and psychological perspective and includes descriptions of program models appropriate for implementation within school settings. The book focuses on cooperation among a variety of school-based professionals; incorporates the roles of community-based professionals and parents; and…

This report describes a study of a rural school district that received national press coverage for an administrative crisis that began with the termination of a longtime district teacher, involved resignations and recalls from the board and the superintendency, and led to intensive conflicts among teachers, school board members, district…

This paper considers ways to help children with special health needs by utilizing the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and the Individualized Health Care Plan (IHCP). Results of a study which found a lack of necessary health information in school documents is summarized. The school nurse is seen as a pivotal person in the identification and…

These instructional materials are designed to provide personnel developers and trainers with resources that can be used to improve the performance of paraeducators working in center-based and home visitor programs for young children with disabilities from birth to age 5. The modules cover: (1) roles of paraeducators working in inclusive…

This guidebook's aim is to encourage the development of good working relationships between parents and service professionals for the benefit of children or young people with disabilities. It begins with a list of reasons for partnership and a discussion of the needs and strengths of families. It then examines the essence of partnership, which is…

The paper examines critical issues involved in the debate over the Regular Education Initiative (REI) to merge special and regular education, with emphasis on implications for school psychologists. The arguments of proponents and opponents of the REI are summarized and the lack of involvement by school psychologists is noted. The REI is seen to…

Intended as a guide and reference for persons involved in local administration of the Johnson-O'Malley (JOM) Indian Education program, the handbook contains basic information about the program and the roles and responsibilities of school administrators, JOM personnel, and local and state Indian Education Committees (IECs). Beginning with a history…

The report presents information gathered in a 1982 survey of over 400 public and private agencies serving preschool handicapped children in New York state. The information is organized into 60 recommendations for improving services in six key areas (sample subtopics in parentheses): (1) identification, evaluation, and placement (screening, use of…

Based on a spring 1979 survey on communication in Association of Research Libraries (ARL) member institutions, this Systems and Procedures Exchange Center (SPEC) kit focuses on upward communication from staff to administration by looking at individual responsibilities of staff members and supervisors. Results indicate that the two most commonly…