Sessions on software review were designed to provide the teachers with a greater exposure to math and science applications. In one session, eight different software packages were made available in the lab for explorations and review. Teachers we asked to sample one or more systems, choose one for careful analysis, and write a report about the application they used including a summary of functions and suggestions for integration into the classroom. The written reports were compiled and copies were provided to all teachers. The Internet was introduced as a valuable educational tool, when it can serve as a source of high-quality, reliable, and relevant information that can be effectively adapted to educational needs.
Parental involvement is a key factor in student achievement.
Awareness and educational programs are provided for parents of children being served by participating districts. The intent is to increase participation of parents in the educational process by providing them with programs which promote the concept that all children can acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to meet challenging standards in inclusionary and general education classrooms. The Program for Guidance Counselors and Child Study Teams Programs for counselors focus on topics that cut across different responsibilities of teachers, counselors, child study team personnel and administrators. The workshop explores methods for maximizing the achievement and development of students with disabilities, with an emphasis on the state content standards. The programs seek to raise the awareness of participants of the bridging mechanisms that facilitate educational transition for individuals with disabilities in SEM courses between elementary and secondary grade level, and strategies that empower parents so that they can enable their children to pursue SEM options.