School districts in the Appalachia region have identified six particular types of families who have special needs related to the school, including: (1) families with low socioeconomic status; (2) single parent families; (3) two-job families; (4) families with chronically ill or handicapped children; (5) isolated rural families; and (6) minority families. A literature review, survey of each type of family, and interviews with school personnel showed variation in the degree to which each special need family differed from all other families. Families with low socioeconomic status were the most distinct as a group while two-job families were least distinct. Single parent families and families with handicapped children were more likely to perceive themselves as having special problems as parents. Minority parents held higher aspirations for their children than non-minority parents. Selected references are appended for each type of family. (Author/JAC)