This article describes the development and implementation of two interdisciplinary preservice programs (at Appalachian State University, North Carolina, and Western Kentucky University) that have combined standards from early childhood and early childhood special education. Both programs cover infants and children (birth to five). Benefits to such…

Discusses the services that resource and referral agencies and early childhood programs in centers and family child care homes can provide to meet the health and developmental needs of young children. Describes the ways in which reimbursement can be obtained from Medicaid when the services are provided for eligible children and families. (BB)

California's approach to developing programmatic and administrative models for the implementation of Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs) in providing services to young handicapped children is discussed. The models focus on implementing recognized best practices as well as changing state policy and administrative structure to enhance…

This section presents two pragmatic studies focusing on a real-life situation and specific applications in managerial decision making. One study deals with improving occupational safety in a bedding manufacturing plant, whereas the other concentrates on managing a state mental health program. (SLD)

Probes the rise in juvenile incarceration in the United States during the 1890s to 1920s and the trend toward privatization of juvenile detention centers. Develops a political model that focuses on the politics of national charities movement and on the variations among the different states regarding the building of youth facilities. (NL)

A case study illustrates comprehensive systems-change integration strategies employed by the Iowa Department of Education over the past six years and their results. A proactive leadership role is recommended to state education agencies in promoting integration. Implications for other states are discussed. (Author/PB)

This study analyzed changes in attitude or behavior of Iowa industrial technology teachers concerning hearing conservation in their classes, between 1985 when a hearing conservation program was implemented and several years later. Results showed that small inroads have been made but the majority of teachers were still not using hearing…

Presents an evaluation of the OnLine at PA Libraries (1996-97) Internet-based information services and resources project for Pennsylvania residents. The project provided a statewide demonstration to improve public library services; connect public libraries to the Internet; provide a range of new services and resources to their communities; and…

Describes the Vermont Community Adjustment Tracking System (VT-CATS), which utilizes four behavioral instruments to allow intensive, ongoing, and interpretable behavioral assessment of a service system's most challenging children and adolescents. Also explains the adjustment indicator checklists and the ability of VT-CATS to address agencies'…

Addresses the historical origins of the State University of New York and its system of community colleges, particularly its contemporary structure and nature in the areas of funding, governance, faculty, students, and programs. Discusses current issues such as (1) statewide budget problems; (2) the underprepared student; (3) distance learning; and…

Provides an overview of library automation in Minnesota. Topics include regional public library systems; library automation vendors; multitype library systems; postsecondary and academic libraries; state government libraries; the Internet; telecommunications and statewide online system legislation and funding; and state library agency involvement…

Provides examples of automation and connectivity initiatives that involve libraries in Nebraska. Highlights include the role of state government; Nebraska Online, an Internet-based information service for electronic communication; a public library cooperative automation project; a college library consortium; a library listserv; and the Nebraska…

Discusses information technology initiatives in New Mexico that involve: a consortium of agencies, businesses, universities, and government offices; dial-up Internet access; access to government information; state educational technology plans; wiring institutions of higher education; two state networks; and tribal initiatives to improve…

In the Kentucky Homeplace Project, specially trained paraprofessionals who live in medically underserved rural communities make home visits, facilitate access to health care, and provide case management and culturally appropriate prevention education for poor families. Strengths include local administration and staff and holistic and traditional…

Vermont's I-Team has provided technical assistance and training to educational team members serving children with disabilities for 25 years. Characteristics of sustainable human services programs include flexibility, collaborative consultation, consideration and inclusion of families and communities, competent management, on-going training for all…