The document reports 1979-80 progress of the Allegheny Intermediate Unit Exceptional Children's Program for Improved Individual Instruction in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Part of the project is designed to develop new materials and resources for developing math and reading skills in learning disabled students. Progress is described for the following…

The most suitable vehicle for preparing preservice teachers for work with exceptional children is clinical experience, which include practica, field experiences, internships, and student teaching. Besides giving preservice teachers practical work experience, a well-planned and action-oriented clinical experience develops and modifies attitudes,…

A career/vocational education training module was developed based on a needs assessment of 2,000 secondary teachers of emotionally disturbed, learning disabled, and educable mentally retarded in Wisconsin. Concepts included in the module were historical factors, definitions, implications for the handicapped, models for implementation, assessment,…

The fourth in a series from a study of least restrictive environment (LRE) placement for handicapped students identifies exemplary practices useful in arriving at LRE placements. Analysis of state documents and observations of 134 placement team meetings held in five states were carried out. Noteworthy approaches are summarized for five…

A transition-oriented program was developed to meet the needs of mildly handicapped secondary students in Montgomery County, Maryland. Described are the program's planning process, adaptation of a generic transition model to a specific school, addition of a prevocational exploration course, and improvement of the annual individualized education…

Describes ways in which educators are using microcomputers to teach special education students basic skills and to handle paperwork demanded by legal regulations. A comparison of Individualized Education Program (IEP) software packages currently available and a profile of a Louisiana school district's special education network are included. (MBR)

This document contains a summary of proceedings of a conference convened June 12-14, 2002, to discuss special education paperwork and to explore ways to reduce paperwork. Participants reacted to and built upon information regarding paperwork from several sources, including a survey of state directors on special education paperwork; a survey on…

This briefing paper provides answers to frequently asked questions about special education. It is divided into sections addressing student evaluation, special education eligibility, writing an Individualized Education Program (IEP), re-evaluation, and other special education issues. Specifically, information is provided on: (1) the purpose of…

The rationale behind Public Law 94-142, which pertains to education of handicapped children, is presented. Key terms such as mainstreaming, least restrictive environment, zero reject, most appropriate placement, and individualized education are discussed to clarify their significance for educators. (PP)

A model of classroom-based staff development for teachers at the high school level is described. The program incorporates the consulting teacher model and uses three kinds of inservice training: courses, consultations, and workshops. (JN)

This article discusses a model transition program and curriculum, ChoiceMaker, which focuses on helping secondary students with disabilities learn those self-determination skills characteristic of successful individuals. The curriculum is organized around 37 self-determination concepts grouped into 7 areas. Student participation in the…

Describes the educational philosophy and practices of the Sunrise Children's Center in Amherst, New Hampshire, which serves all children, both disabled and nondisabled, from the ages of two to six years. The description of the program is highlighted with stories of children in the center. (BB)

The experience of one handicapped boy and his family at a Concord (New Hampshire) elementary school that practices inclusive education highlights obstacles the parents met with regard to placing their son at the local school, early successes, social and academic progress for the student, and changing attitudes. (JB)

This case study of a 14-year-old boy with severe disabilities describes the collaboration of a team of educators who sought to include him in eighth-grade general-education classes. His inclusion plan included four steps: planning, selecting classes, accommodating, and collaborating. The accomplishments of the student's inclusion in earth science…

At Montpelier (Vermont) High School, faculty members, in collaboration with University of Vermont colleagues, received a federal U.S. Department of Education grant to make personalized learning plans based on students' strengths and goals a reality for disabled and nondisabled students. The process empowered students and enhanced family…