Describes the Kaleidoscope, a conference activity designed to make special needs personnel and other interested individuals aware of a variety of new techniques, materials, and programs for handicapped, disadvantaged, and limited English proficiency learners. Subjects include evaluating software for disabled learners, workshops, competency-based…

The author presents and discusses some basic characteristics of effective coalitions. These characteristics include clearly defined mission, emphasis of common ideology and goals, equal power among groups, effective leadership, overlapping interests and frequent member contacts, image of power, variable resources, and appropriate termination. (CT)

The author reports on a collaborative effort among three state agencies that is currently giving 3,000 California youth who are disabled a chance to prove themselves in private sector job placements. Discusses program administration, funding, computerized recordkeeping, entrance requirements, and plans for the future. (CT)

Discusses the District of Columbia's new career programs in its high schools, each in fields with projected job growth and each with corporate sponsors who participated in the program's design and curriculum development. Examines program costs, program development, design, and effectiveness. (CT)