The article discusses the need for systematic program evaluation of rural special education. Inherent characteristics of rural areas that inhibit data gathering and evaluation are described as well as the consequences of inadequate program evaluation. It is recommended that traditional evaluation models be adapted for rural environments.…

This article describes prevention and treatment factors that can assist rural students at risk for learning difficulties to develop self-esteem and lead useful lives. Factors include social change, teacher education, community-business-school partnerships, family involvement, community education, interdisciplinary approaches to assessment, school…

Of 100 rural school districts surveyed, 80 percent provided some HIV/AIDS education, but offerings often were brief and poorly evaluated. Only 45 percent involved parents, students, and community in program development. Educational objectives, program length and content, placement in the curriculum, policy issues, and related programs are…

Synthesizes first comprehensive national effort to derive empirical data base for establishing rural education research priorities. Reports rating of 46 research questions prioritized into 13 themes by 461 rural education researchers/practitioners. Presents rank ordered themes including rural school effectiveness, governance/finance, staff…

Describes processes used by rural districts and cooperatives to implement staff development programs which can improve special education procedures in rural areas, with beneficial effects on the whole system; presents four models: (1) management approach; (2) management information system approach; (3) multiple roles approach; and (4)…

This paper describes the distinct strengths and weaknesses of special education in rural schools and discusses issues regarding rural education reform recommendations, such as inadequate resources, parental involvement, and use of rigidly interpreted performance standards. Preventive service delivery systems are recommended, and several policy…

Describes and explains various factors in rural education and shows how "A Nation at Risk," the report of the Commission on Excellence in Education, ignores certain rural factors in its recommendations for education. Offers eight recommendations for policymakers who are designing strategies for implementing the commission…

Discusses problems associated with teen sex, the relationship between teen sexuality and self-esteem, and problems with traditional sex-education programs. Outlines factors in effective sex education, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive health program. Discusses problems specific to rural areas, and includes examples of programs…

Discusses school sex education programs with regard to prevention of AIDS/HIV infection among adolescents. Outlines problems and success factors of teen sex education programs. Considers why teenage sex is common and why sex education, in isolation, is not a deterrent. Describes specific rural problems and approaches. Contains 22 references. (SV)

Presents excerpts from 12 case studies of rural at-risk students. Examines their common characteristics, the high prevalence of at-risk students in rural areas, the relationship of this phenomenon to rural cultures, and prevention and treatment factors in the school and community. Contains 16 references. (SV)