This article presents a four-step strategy for developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for severely disabled learners based on principles of age-appropriate participation in regular classes and special education and related services provided in the regular school environment. Stressed are integration, individualization, teamwork,…

The paper summarizes the reasons given for the decrease in Braille literacy and analyzes them as indicators of faults in the system of educating children with visual handicaps. Reasons include undercounting visually handicapped children, emphasizing use of vision, attitudes toward Braille, teacher competency, service delivery via itinerant…

Provides suggestions for teaching library skills to mainstreamed special education students for each of the four components of the instructional model: (1) determining skill level; (2) setting objectives; (3) instructing with modification (methods, materials, and motivation); and (4) monitoring progress. (seven references) (MES)

Discusses independent elementary schools serving primarily Black urban students. Focuses on the following issues: (1) individualized attention; (2) small class size; (3) parent participation; (4) cultural values; and (5) school finance. Suggests that many of the principles and practices applied in independent schools could improve public…

The article argues that students with severe intellectual disabilities should attend their local "home school" where they should have an individualized educational program in both regular and special settings, with the necessary resources applied to develop, maintain, and enhance social relationships with nondisabled peers. (Author/DB)

Consistency in legal opinions provides administrators a framework for dealing with the discipline of handicapped students. Determination should be made by the individualized educational program team to ensure that students not be disciplined merely because they are handicapped. (MLF)

If extended school year (ESY) programming is required in order for the student with disabilities to receive an appropriate education, school districts must make the necessary provisions. Reviews court decisions. (31 footnotes) (MLF)

Comprehensively surveys the reported court decisions arising from liability litigation on behalf of K-12 students with disabilities. Reports that no court decision has appeared of monetary damage judgment against a public school district or official for improper diagnosis/placement or improper education of a nondisabled, much less disabled,…

In "Carter" the Supreme Court affirmed a ruling where parents of a learning-disabled student were afforded tuition reimbursement after unilaterally enrolling the student in a private school. Briefly describes rulings in eight other lower court decisions. Concludes that the "Carter" decision will have little impact on school…

Program development for children with special health management needs calls for acquisition of intake information from the child's family and service professionals, a continuum of options for health services, an individualized family service plan or individualized education program, an emergency protocol, and consideration of legal issues. (JDD)

Analyzes changes in the Quebec Education Act and accompanying regulations and directives in light of the following 10 major objectives: (1) right-to-education; (2) extended schooling; (3) availability of services; (4) accessibility of facilities; (5) prevention; (6) assessment; (7) integration; (8) appropriate education; (9) consultation; and (10)…

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and its implementing regulations provide disabled students and their parents with specific procedural rights. Cited cases illustrate that failure to provide parents with the rights enumerated in the legislation will lead to decisions against school districts in the courts. (MLF)

Two studies (with 78 experts in deaf blindness and multiple disabilities and 44 parents of children with deaf blindness) explored the content and social validity of an educational planning tool--COACH (Choosing Options and Accommodations for Children). Combined results provide initial validation that COACH is congruent with exemplary practice.…

A study involving 322 children whose individualized education programs contained goals and objectives that require vision or orientation and mobility services found that most were placed in full or part-time regular classrooms and that the most frequently reported services included ordering books and materials and Braille reading and writing. (CR)

Encourages parents and educators to apply political pressure through advocacy to make policymakers aware of special education issues concerning the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Discusses the importance of being familiar with current law, knowing how to obtain services, and being an advocate on a global level. Reminds individuals…