Standards-driven reform policies at the local level: Report on a survey of local special education directors in large districts

Abstract

Standards, assessments, and increased accountability for student performance are the current hot topics in education. Little is known about district-level reform policies in these important areas, particularly whether they differ from state policy. The results of this survey of large school districts points to a layering of state and local standards, assessments, and accountability policies that can place multiple demands on schools and students. Also, students with disabilities are differentially considered within specific reform policies.