A study focused on the development and preliminary validation of a framework for effective vocational education programs serving students with special needs. An initial framework composed of 20 program components was posited from an analysis of recent, rigorous studies of vocational education programs serving disabled, disadvantaged, and limited English proficiency students. Information for three concurrent content validity analyses was drawn from state-sponsored studies of exemplary programs, professional texts, and federal legislation. Content analysis matrices were developed for each information source. For each of the documents or studies, a data matrix illustrated the extent to which each component was verified. Multiple readers with expertise in vocational education for special needs students reviewed and verified the data presented in the matrices. Each component drew support from at least half of the validity sources. Eight components were verified by more than half as essential: sufficient financial support, individualized curriculum modifications, ongoing career guidance and counseling, instructional support services, assessment of individual career interests and abilities, family/parental involvement and support, intra- and interagency collaboration, and follow-up. They emerged as the core structure for the programs and services that serve special population students effectively. (Appendixes include 41 references, an 11-item bibliography, and a descriptive list of 20 components.) (YLB)