Among 211 rural Kentucky schools surveyed, full inclusion of students with disabilities was practiced in only 9 schools, whereas approximately 80% had adopted partial inclusion (mainstreaming) to various degrees. Most respondents reported lack of teacher training, lack of special instructional materials and special equipment in the regular…

The impact of Kentucky state testing on educational practices in Kentucky public schools was investigated via a survey study. Randomly selected urban and nonurban teachers and principals (4 groups, N=180) throughout the state participated in the survey. Findings indicate that this state testing program has substantial impact on educational…

School councils, a school-based decision making (SBDM) form of governance, are mandated for Kentucky public schools by the Kentucky Education Reform Act (KERA). Commonly composed of the principal, three teachers, and two parents, the school council is designed to be a form of democratic or shared school governance. The missions of school councils…

This paper examines how inclusion services are delivered in Kentucky rural regular schools. Survey responses were received from special educators in 261 rural regular schools throughout Kentucky. Vocational schools, treatment centers, alternative schools, and other special schools were not included in the survey. Results indicate that…

A survey of 419 Kentucky regular public schools was conducted to investigate how special education services are presently delivered to children with disabilities in the context of the statewide educational reform movement. The study examined: (1) how many regular public schools in Kentucky are practicing full inclusion; (2) how full inclusion and…