Findings from a state survey about practices in testing students of limited English proficiency (LEP) confirm a general lack of policies and guidelines relating to the standardized achievement testing of LEP students. Concern for LEP students in testing may reflect a general interest in bilingual education. (SLD)

A 50-state survey was conducted to determine state indicators of quality of science and mathematics instruction in elementary schools. Data are summarized for (1) policies affecting amount of instruction; (2) state requirements for science and mathematics teacher certification; and (3) state testing programs in science and mathematics. (SLD)

A survey of 49 state Part H coordinators was conducted to review standards in place for personnel serving infants, toddlers, and their families. The study analyzed, by state, the standards for all 10 professional disciplines addressed under Part H of the Education of the Handicapped Act. Implications for state practice and policy are discussed.…

Ninth grade students of limited English proficiency (SLEP) in Hawaii were studied to determine their characteristics on Hawaii Test of Essential Competencies (HSTEC), how they compare to norm on test, and degree to which performance on HSTEC can be predicted. Results indicate that SLEP students can be considered separate population within total…

Describes a study of state employees that was conducted to examine the strengths and weaknesses of the use of teleconferencing to increase creativity among workers. A model of creativity is explained, the pretest/posttest used to assess teleconferencing effectiveness is presented, and implications for teleconferencing are discussed. (eight…

A Tennessee program awards stipends to teachers to attend summer classes and a practicum and earn 18 hours of credit in education of children with visual impairments. The program requires that teachers have assurance from their superintendents that they will teach visually impaired students in their school systems after endorsement. (Author/JDD)

Discusses problems that have impeded the use of learning technologies in education, including costs, training educators, and the confusion of networks and databases. Greater involvement by the federal government is suggested as a solution; federal help in the past is described; and legislation currently proposed is explained. (LRW)

Tennessee data were analyzed for four years before and five years after the funding formula for special education was changed from a "flat" rate to a "weighted" formula. The weighted formula was associated with a statistically significant decrease in less restrictive placements and a reliable increase in more restrictive…

A series of three related studies provided evaluative information concerning the Madeline Hunter model of the Program for Effective Teaching implementation in South Carolina. Primary results showed that training was well received by the teachers, that follow-up coaching was limited in quantity and not always consistent with Hunters's…

Issues that program planners should consider in developing performance standards for the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) older worker programs (OWPs) are reviewed. Using goal-setting theory and the results of a two-year evaluation of OWPs in Texas, the discussion covers approaches to developing standards for programs other states. (TJH)

A survey evaluation of special classes for the gifted in 35 Indiana school districts was carried out among 173 teachers, administrators, and program coordinators. Results indicated that the curriculum and teaching methods were clearly differentiated for the gifted and were effective in meeting their needs. (Author/PB)

Describes the Georgia Instructor Academy, established to enhance the quality of Georgia's postsecondary technical teachers through technical training and professional development. Discusses the development of program standards and curriculum guides by Georgia's Board of Technical and Adult Education, the Technical Education: Guaranteed program,…

Describes strategic planning efforts in eight states (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin) to implement guidelines in "Information Power" (1998, American Library Association) relating good school library media programs to student achievement success. Discusses Web pages; state conferences;…

Outlines New York State's plan for all libraries to provide electronic services to their users by the use of computer and telecommunications technology. Recommendations of the initiative's organizing committee focus on: services and funding; equity and ease of access; profession and education; partnerships; standards and protocols; collection…

This overview of telecommunications in Arizona discusses library telecommunications; state library activities; the Arizona State Public Information Network; higher education projects; community outreach; business and economic development; state telecommunications policy; the paradigm shift in the public's use of telecommunications; community…