This study examined characteristics of students with disabilities who participated in Minnesota's open enrollment, reasons for participation, information sources, and the decision-making process. Surveys of 347 parents revealed 3 primary reasons for transferring their children: special education needs being better met, more personal attention from…

A survey was conducted of Minnesota families of students with disabilities (n=60) and without disabilities (n=60), and responses were compared to identify practices related to public school choice. Results indicated that the media were the primary source of information for families of general education students, while principals and teachers were…

This study compared students with learning disabilities who participated in open enrollment in Minnesota with their nondisabled peers, in terms of reasons for transfer, source of information about open enrollment, parent involvement with the school, and demographics. The study involved a survey of 59 families of students with learning disabilities…

Current screening and diagnostic practices for identifying young handicapped children in Minnesota were surveyed. Information was gathered on the populations served, the professionals and tools employed in screening and diagnosis, decision criteria, and the perception of gaps and duplications in services. The results indicated a heavy reliance on…

This report examines the characteristics of students with disabilities who participate in Open Enrollment (one of seven enrollment options available in Minnesota), the reasons they participate, the sources of information, and the decision-making process involved in choosing another district. A survey was conducted of 219 families of students with…

This report examines the development of school choice policies as an element of educational reform, describes open enrollment as one form of school choice, outlines other types of school choice programs, describes Minnesota's various forms of educational choice, explores arguments for and against choice, and discusses issues and concerns for…

Presents the results of surveys and follow-up interviews of parents of children with disabilities who chose to use the "open enrollment" transfer option in Minnesota. Reasons for school transfer included better met special education needs and personal attention for children at chosen schools, and more information on child's progress from…