| Scope and Method of Study. The purpose of this descriptive survey study was to investigate the effects of NCLB mandates on the special education programs in rural school districts as expressed by rural school administrators.;Findings and Conclusions. Rural school districts continue to experience shortages of teachers with Highly Qualified Teacher status, especially at secondary sites. Overall, administrators are reporting that special education subgroups are achieving Adequate Yearly Progress at a higher rate than was predicted by previous research. Professional development needs identified by respondents include diversified instruction, inclusion, and resistance to intervention. |
