Observation of 26 initial placement/individual education plan (IEP) conferences for elementary age learning-disabled children found minimal parent participation during the conferences, but parents reported, in postconference interviews, satisfaction with the conferences. Results are related to the intent of P.L. 94-142, the Education for All…

The purpose of this document is to provide guidance for assessment and individualized education program (IEP) planning teams regarding the consideration of assistive technology. The guidelines provide recommended practices that will assist teams in making decisions about an individual student's need for assistive technology and a decision-making…

This guide for parents of children with disabilities in Florida is intended to answer common questions about the exceptional student education program. The first chapter provides an overview of exceptional student education including laws about the education of children with disabilities, parents' records, planning a child's education, continuing…

New Mexico defines a pathway as a planned program of study (course, Individualized Education Program [IEP] goals, objectives, and benchmarks) designed to address the needs of individual students. Students receiving special education services are able to earn their high school diploma option by following one of three pathways: Standard, Career…

Reviews the 1997 amendments to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act in the context of the law's history. Focused on are changes in Individualized Education Program requirements, mediation as a conflict resolution option, discipline of students in special education, and the required review of the relationship between a student's…

Discussion of the British Code of Practice for the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs focuses on the need to implement the Code in the context of the National Curriculum, modified as necessary, and individualized in the student's Individualized Education Plan. (DB)

This article explicates the current legislation, case law, and administrative law governing the discipline of students with disabilities. Guidelines are offered that divide disciplinary procedures into three categories: permitted, controlled, and prohibited. The role of the Individualized Education Program team in planning proactive disciplinary…

Dr. Mitchell Yell, an expert in special-education law, is interviewed on the 1997 amendments to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act that will affect the discipline of students with disabilities. He addresses suspension and expulsion of students with disabilities, the required manifestation determination hearing, and…

In light of the discipline provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act emphasizing functional assessments and positive behavioral interventions as well as new responsibilities for the Individualized Education Program team, this article discusses the problems that school divisions are encountering when implementing these…

This article addresses whether or not the assumptions upon which the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) is based remain valid as we approach the 21st century. Eligibility and labeling, free and appropriate public education, the individualized education program, and the least restrictive environment requirements are examined, and…

This bulletin explores the current status of federal and state, especially Pennsylvania, legislation and recent court decisions pertaining to gifted education. It notes the existence, at the federal level, of only one law related to gifted education, the Jacob Javits Act of 1988 which, however, does not mandate the creation of special programs and…

Today, foreign language teachers are faced with more challenges than ever before. These challenges are due to technological advancements, new educational policies and reforms, a rapidly changing student population, and recent legislation and documents designed for educating "all" students. Most foreign language teachers who do not have…

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:…

Three areas related to decision making are discussed: (1) a research survey summary of multidisciplinary team decision making (MTD); (2) four approaches for structuring MTD decision making; and (3) styles of leadership as a factor that impacts on the decision-making teams. (Author/PN)

The article outlines provisions of the Carl D. Perkins Vocational Education Act (P.L. 98-524) which provide equity and access to vocational education for students with handicaps. Provisions concern: guidance, counseling, and career development; provision of information concerning vocational program opportunities; equal access to vocational…