This updated edition provides information about common exceptionalities, ADHD and bipolar disorder, legal considerations, and discussions on postsecondary transition, NCLB, and the reauthorization of IDEA 2004.

`This is a book that ought to be included in every teacher′s opening packet each school year. An uncomplicated, easy-to-read guide to the exceptional child′s needs and rights in the regular classroom that is at once comprehensive and accessible′ - Joseph Staub, Resource Specialist Teacher, Thomas Starr King Middle School, Los Angeles, California Teachers are often unprepared to work with students with special needs, particularly those with disabilities who are placed in regular classrooms. Brief Reference of Student Disabilities... With Strategies for the Classroom provides an overview of current laws, and describes in detail the nature and characteristics of the disabilities and health disorders teachers are likely to encounter. The book suggests practical strategies educators can use to prepare the classroom and promote positive school experiences for all students.

"A resource book for students, parents, and professionals"--Cover.

This book describes characteristics of mild disabilities in an easy-to-read-and-understand format. It includes the best teaching practices for inclusion, behavior management, and classroom instruction. A chapter on parents highlights strategies for enhancing this school-family partnership. The book merges practical teaching strategies and solutions with the challenges posed by mildly disabled students. Includes appendices on the history of special education, the side effects of medications, and frequently used tests. Applicable to teachers and administrators who have students with mild disabilities, who are at-risk, or who are "mainstreamed" or included in the classroom.

This text is a clear and current description of the instructional strategies that can be immediately applied across age groups and disability labels. An evidence-based instructional methodology is provided, which has proved to be effective in teaching skills to students and adults with disabilities. Signature topics include: (1) a community-referenced functional curriculum; (2) how to assess and analyze skills; (3) teaching skills; (4) functional academics; (5) teaching employment skills; (6) functional skills in community; (7) functional skills in residential settings; (8) teaching social skills; (9) self-determination and self-advocacy skills; and (10) self-management skills. Each chapter includes Key Point Questions, Windows to the World Case Studies, Best Practice Recommendations, Future Research Issues, Discussion Questions, and School and Community-based Activity Suggestions to illustrate, extend and clarify a systematic approach to improving the functional skills of individuals with disabilities. These features allow the reader to explore and apply effective instructional strategies across domains such as employment, community, residential as well as the skills necessary to enjoy recreation and leisure opportunities. The most unique feature is that it is written specifically for practitioners in the field, not for academics. The format, readability, and detailed description of instructional methodology make it a valued resource for instructors responsible for improving the skills of learners with disabilities.

Working with Students with Disabilities: Preparing School Counselors by Vicki A. McGinley and Barbara C. Trolley is an essential tool for all school counselors in training and in practice with the aim to provide a comprehensive approach to working with students with disabilities in a school setting. As more students with disabilities are being included, school counselors need to have a fundamental understanding of the terminology, laws, principles, collaboration, assessment measures, and psycho-social, diversity issues associated with special education. This book continues in the trend of providing sound, evidenced-based knowledge with practical case examples and guided exercises, making the material 'come alive' and fostering critical thinking. “Finally, a book FOR school counselors that specifically addresses the needs of students with disabilities and how we can interface with the team in supporting these students.” –Nona Cabral, California Baptist University “McGinley and Trolley have brought together in one exceptional volume the vast material that modern school counselors often leave the classroom searching for – how to understand the complexities of the system in regards to students with special needs, how to best collaborate with professionals and families in meeting those needs, and how to best structure interventions and programs to move those students forward across social, emotional, and academic realms.” –Carrie Lynn Bailey, Georgia Southern University “McGinley and Trolley have crafted a text that illuminates the multifaceted responsibilities of school counselors relevant to special education. Faculty, graduate students and practicing counselors alike will find the problem-based learning approach a helpful guide for integrating the content covered in this text into their professional practice.” –Kylie P. Dotson-Blake, East Carolina University “Special education students are frequently the most marginalized group on school campuses. Working with Students with Disabilities: Preparing School Counselors points to ways school counselors can open pathways for creating a learning community that supports all students.” –Rolla E. Lewis, California State University, East Bay

*Bronze Medal Winner in the Education / Academic / Teaching Category of the 2011 IPPY Awards* * Bronze Medal Winner in the 2010 BOTYA Awards Education Category * Graduating high school and moving on to further education or the workplace brings with it a whole new set of challenges, and this is especially true for students with disabilities. This useful book provides a complete overview of the issues such students and their families will need to consider, and outlines the key skills they will need in order to succeed once they get there. The authors describe the legal landscape as it applies to students with disabilities in the USA, and how to obtain the proper disability documentation to ensure that the student receives the right support and accommodations in college. Focussing specifically on the issues that affect students with disabilities, they offer advice on everything from dealing with college entrance exams and the college application process, to selecting the right college, visiting the campus, and achieving medical and financial independence away from home. A list of further resources guides students and their families towards additional sources of information and support, and stories of students with disabilities who have made the transition from high school to further education or the workplace are included throughout. This accessible and thoroughly readable book offers help and support to students with disabilities of all kinds, and their families, both before and during the transition to life after high school.