Full Description
"Contains critical information that administrators need as they navigate special education policies and procedures. Administrators will discover a practical process for not only improving the quality of special education services, but also for transforming the teaching/learning cycle for all students."
—Kim Benton, Executive Director of Federal Programs and Special Populations
Meridian Public Schools, MS
Lead effective special education programs that promote student achievement!
The No Child Left Behind Act and other recent federal mandates have established a new level of accountability for special education programs. Updated to reflect these changes, this practical guide assists principals in developing special education programs that address current standards and students' diverse needs.
The second edition of McLaughlin's bestseller provides a straightforward overview of special education for principals and other administrators. This resource offers insights on how to lead programs for students with special needs and covers basic legal and procedural information. Written by a well-known and respected scholar in special education, this guide includes new information that enables principals to:
Fulfill requirements of NCLB and the 2004 reauthorization of IDEA, including standards-based individualized education programs
Ensure that special education students can appropriately access the general curriculum
Understand standardized testing options and accommodations to comply with federal law
Support accurate identification and eligibility decisions, including Response to Intervention procedures
Promote positive behavior and encourage family involvement
Help your students with disabilities reach their full potential through high-quality special education programs and services.
Contents
Preface to the Second Edition
Acknowledgments
About the Author
Introduction: What Every Principal Needs to Know About Special Education
Five Things Every Principal Needs to Know About Special Education
Section I. Creating Quality Special Education: Understanding the Basics of Special Education
What Is an Appropriate Education?
The IEP
The Least Restrictive Environment
Who Is Eligible for Special Education?
Procedural Safeguards - "The Law in Special Education"
Other Important Laws Affecting Students With Disabilities
Legal Issues and Assessing Students With Disabilities
Other Federal Disability Laws
Understanding the Differences Among Federal, State, and Local Special Education Requirements
Section II. Creating Quality Special Education: The Foundations
A New Model of Special Education
Access to the General Education Curriculum
Understanding Accommodations
Developing Standards-Based IEPs
Promoting Positive Behavior or How to Avoid the Discipline Problem
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports
Building Strong Parent and Family Connections
Section III. Creating Quality Special Education: The Context
Adopt Evidence-Based Practices
What Are Evidenced-Based Practices?
The Importance of Using Published Research
Quality of Evidence
Data-Based Decision Making
Creating Shared Responsibility for Students With Disabilities
Collaboration Between General and Special Educators
Section IV. Summary
Glossary
References
Index
