This report synthesizes the discussions which took place at an international conference on profound mental handicap held in Madrid, Spain (November, 1984). An overview of the issues involved in helping people with profound handicaps cites several positive trends, such as education for all, family support services, home visitations by direct care…

Two parents recount experiences in keeping their severely physically disabled daughter in regular classes within their neighborhood school against the stated policy and pressures of the school system. Stressed is the value of group action by parents and the power of individuals speaking up. (DB)

A review of learning disabilities in gifted children provides definitions of "learning disabilities" and "giftedness", a classification of gifted students with learning disabilities, the importance of a multidimensional approach to identifying students with gifts/learning disabilities, characteristics, programming guidelines, teaching strategies,…

This document provides answers to frequently asked questions on the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and the education rights of children and youth in homeless situations. The answers are general responses based on federal statutes, regulations, and guidance; relevant case law; and best practices from across the country. While the National…

One of two Massachusetts reports on minority students in special education, the booklet contains eight articles focusing on the parent's role in special education decision making. The initial article discusses steps to help parents prepare for the team meeting. The effects of misplacement are noted in the next article. The following article…

The sample parent handbook contains handouts used with a series of four meetings in which parents of preschool handicapped children learn how to be their child's advocate. The first meeting is on Testing and the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and includes: "Evaluation Responsibilities,""Questions You May Want To…

An electric preschool is a classroom or center for children 3 to 5 years of age in which the curriculum with its supportive activities, materials, and equipment depends more on technology that is powered by electricity than on manually operated objects. Certainly, preschoolers need stimulating and safe environments managed by adults who allow them…

The issue's major feature, on physical and sexual abuse of handicapped children, focuses on education and adult awareness of the problem. It has been well documented that children with handicaps are especially vulnerable to abuse. Parents or other adults who believe that abuse has occurred should first write down exactly what the child has told…

This brief report applies research on self-determination to suggestions for helping students with disabilities make a successful transition from school to adult life. First, it defines the concept of self-determination and considers how self-determination is learned. It summarizes research supporting the view that self-determination in high school…

This book for parents of children with disabilities is a guide to parent advocacy and the special education system. The five sections focus on: (1) getting started in advocacy; (2) "Advocacy 101"; (3) the parent as expert; (4) special education law; and (5) tactics and strategies. Individual chapters address the following topics:…

There is no question that students who are homeless, like all students, are entitled to be educated. A federal law, known as the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, requires states to provide homeless children and youth with the same access to free public education as is available to other students. The Act also requires states to eliminate…

All children are entitled to a solid education in the United States. There is a good reason for this: For generations, education has been the most reliable path to a better life. A good education offers a better quality of life, including access to good jobs and careers. Getting a good education is even more important today than in the past as…

This manual, which is designed for surrogate parents, social workers, and educational personnel working with the Maine Surrogate Parent Program, attempts to ensure that children without available parents or guardians are provided with equal educational opportunities. Individual sections address the following topics: program purpose, definitions,…

Parents of gifted children are advised to follow a four-step plan of information gathering and advocacy when their children are not receiving an appropriate educational program. Examples of three parents following this procedure are presented, along with a checklist for program and teacher evaluation. (DB)

The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 helps to ensure that all children receive a high-quality education and holds schools responsible for making sure that all children are learning. The information in this brochure is consistent with this important law. The early school years are the foundation for school success, the time when children will learn…