Ohio Speaks: Working Together To Shape the Future of Special Education. A Special Education Action Plan for the 1990's.

Overview & Synopsis

The eight goals and the corresponding strategies outlined in this document reflect Ohio's special education plan for the 1990's. The goals are based on Ohio's mission of special education for students with handicaps, which is to prepare each student to be a contributing member of society by providing high-quality programs, research, and services designed to develop academic, communication, social, citizenship, and career/life skills that lead to independence as adults. The goals include: (1) provide an appropriate education for all preschool-age children with handicaps; (2) work collaboratively with regular education personnel to provide educational services to children who are handicapped or at risk; (3) redefine special education eligibility criteria; (4) increase opportunities for employment and/or postsecondary education for special education graduates; (5) improve preservice and inservice education for both regular and special education personnel; (6) improve instructional programs; (7) provide supportive services and training to families; and (8) evaluate special education program effectiveness through student outcomes. The action plan also contains a glossary of terms and a time line for implementation of the strategies. (JDD)