Written chiefly for a wide variety of specialists who have responsibility for special educational provisions for mentally retarded pupils, the book also is intended for general school and special education administration courses. Each chapter starts with a set of guiding principles, followed by expanded examples, and concludes with a summary which highlights the substance of the chapter. The topics which are explored include a program design for continuity; identification and characteristics of the mentally retarded; the teacher as basis for an effective curriculum; the role of the principal and of the special education supervisor; the school environment, including the physical plant, supplies, and equipment; inservice education for teachers; parent education; vocational counseling; and community planning, programs, and projects. Listings are provided of 120 references, 19 films (with annotations), and 12 publishers' books for elementary and secondary classes. Appendixes present cumulative records, special forms for administrators' use, and special teacher prepared materials. (DF)