These guidelines address the development and implementation of sound, cost-effective programs of special education, related services, and in-service staff development in Delaware schools. The goals of the guidelines are to provide a stimulus for the state-wide development of: (1) realistic and precise individualized education programs (IEPs) for all severity levels of handicaps; (2) a full continuum of on-site programs able to deliver effectively and flexibly the special education and related services required by IEPs; and (3) a manpower development system which fosters dynamic professional growth. The handicapping conditions covered include: learning disabilities, physical impairments, mental retardation, speech and language deficits, hearing impairments, specific visual impairments, deaf-blind impairments, social/emotional maladjustments, autism, and mild handicapping conditions (ages 4 to 6). A common format for discussion of each handicapping condition was established, as follows: nature of the exceptionality; the educational challenge; bases for placement in mainstream or specialized settings; the delivery of special education and related services (identification and diagnosis, the Individual Education Program, and program structure); staff professional growth (focusing on specialized interdisciplinary systems such as special schools and institutional settings as well as a mainstream continuum of services including regular classes, resource rooms, and special classes); references; and glossary. (JDD)