Statements are made concerning the philosophy of special education classes, the role of the State Department of Education in them (including background and financial assistance available), and the steps in setting up a special education program (administrative responsibilities, selection and placement, and parent consultation). Programs are discussed in terms of eligibility, class size and age range, physical plant, educational program, and teacher requirements. Program standards included are those for educable retarded, trainable retarded, children with learning disabilities, visually handicapped, hard of hearing, orthopedically handicapped, children with special health problems, speech therapy, homebound instruction, and educational examiners. Standards for scheduling, reporting, and dismissal, vocational training in home economics, and cooperative programs are also presented. (JM)