Overview >> Introduction | Framework | Objectives

Three objectives guide our investigation of the issues relating to alternative schools and programs serving students with disabilities. These objectives will be met through implementation of four studies.

Objective 1. To describe, define and categorize the variety of alternative schools across the nation in terms of

• current policies guiding operation,
• organizational structure,
• demographics (e.g. size, staffing, location)
• number and kinds of students served,
• curriculum and instructional practices, and
• special education issues.

Objective 2. To describe alternative school practices for students with disabilities including

• referral and identification process,
• exit procedures, length of time in alternative schools, procedures for transition to other settings,
• special education services available,
• accountability systems and outcomes, and
• the extent to which alternative school and programs are used as IDEA required interim alternative educational settings.

Objective 3. To organize and synthesize issues related to alternative schools and students with disabilities based on information gathered at the national level, state level and from in-depth examination of selected sites.

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