Implementing IDEA

Book excerpt: This guide is designed to provide information on ensuring quality special education services and early intervention to building principals in elementary and middle schools. It sets forth standards of excellence that directly relate to implementing the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and presents guidelines for principals to use when assessing themselves and their school community. It is intended that the standards and guidelines in this document be used to assess quality practices and program improvement. The guide is organized around the following categories: (1) school organization, which addresses the need for an adequate supply of qualified personnel; (2) leadership; (3) curriculum and instruction, which addresses student access to a high-quality curriculum, provision of adequate financial and material resources, and use of effective instructional practices; (4) staff development; (5) school climate, which addresses the need to ensure all children feel respected and welcome; and (6) assessment. For each section, standards are presented along with specific guidelines. Appendix A contains a checklist that principals or other stakeholders may use to assess the extent to which their schools meet the quality standards and guidelines. Appendix B includes excerpts from the text of the IDEA regulations referenced in the guide. (CR)