The implementation of PL 94-142, special education for Native American children, is addressed in these six essays. PL 94-142 guarantees all exceptional children the right to a free education; in addition the child's program must be tailored to meet the pupil's individualized needs with all instruction appropriate to the child, providing a least restrictive environment for his participation in learning. For the Native American exceptional child, this concept of education presents a temporary hindrance, yet an innovation. The referral process is activated only when a child seems unable to function adequately in the environment. On the reservation, the school has assumed this role of referral, although parents or guardians may accept the responsibility to refer a student. The referral is evaluated. This step includes a complete explanation of the evaluation so both the parent or guardian and the child understand what is involved; an explanation in their native language may be necessary. After the child's primary language is determined, the evaluation is conducted. Once the evaluation is complete, a multidiciplinary meeting, placement of the child, and an individualized education program are undertaken. The parent or guardian may participate in this meeting and an interpretor may be present to establish open communication. This procedure is not always conducted in this manner at schools on the reservation. An immediate redress of the referral process may be facilitated when parents' rights have been violated, educational direction of the child is hindered, or there is dissatisfaction with the referral process, student placement, or individualized program. Mainstreaming processes are briefly described. (EB)