Educators are faced with policy development issues that will allow children with AIDS to be educated, provide AIDS education in the schools, and educate groups whose lack of information may cause difficulties for educators trying to implement these policies. This paper provides guidelines for development of a HIV/AIDS policy. The premises of policy development are the protection of health and welfare of students and staff and protection of rights of privacy, acquisition of an education, and maintenance of employment. Policymakers are urged to know their community and develop community support prior to policy development. Developing a policy committee provides community input and review. Informational workshops for school board members encourage their participation in this sensitive issue. A united front at this stage will help when a public forum is held for community information. Open communication is important throughout policy development; providing clear and accurate information for the media can enhance the image one wishes to project. Policymakers must consider what constitutes a least restrictive environment for an identified HIV/AIDS student in light of literature and research about AIDS transmission. Placement of infected students must be considered on an individual basis, subject to periodic review by a team of professionals. (DHP)