This digest summarizes the problem of over-representation of minority students in special education and offers suggestions to reduce this disproportionate representation. It notes concerns of the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) and the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) that minority students are being misclassified and receiving inappropriate services and/or discriminatory placement in special education. Suggestions for reducing over-representation focus on creating a successful school environment for all students and distinguishing disabilities from cultural differences. Specific suggestions are offered for promoting family involvement, making the general education classroom conducive to success for all children, increasing the accuracy of referral and evaluation, providing appropriate special education services, and monitoring the provision of services. Also noted are federal activities of OSEP and OCR to reduce over-representation. (DB)