Special Education Instructional Programs. Program Evaluation 1990-91.

Overview & Synopsis

This 1990-91 program evaluation reports on the special education instructional programs of the Des Moines, Iowa, public schools which serve approximately 3,600 students daily and over 5,000 students per year with special education services as prescribed in their Individualized Education Plans. The three primary sources of program funding are: (1) state and weighted funding formula; (2) Area Education Agency support dollars; and (3) federal dollars. Human resources include 304 special education teachers, 195 associates, 22 special education instructional support staff, and 5 specific administrators. A variety of program models are offered. District wide goals are developed on an annual basis. Improved strategies in prevention, identification, instruction, and cooperation are the focus of the Neighborhood Schools Project. Plans for improvement include expanding the Project, increasing collaboration with regular education and community agencies, and intensifying efforts to recruit and maintain quality instructional staff. The report details programs for each disability area as well as data on input evaluation (e.g., budget, textbooks and materials); process evaluation (e.g., job descriptions, inservice and staff development); and product evaluation (surveys, audits, intended and unintended outcomes). (DB)