The Federal Role in Learning Disabilities

Abstract

This is the first in a series of interviews intended to provide perspectives on learning disabilities from the vantage point of persons in positions important to the future of the field. This first interview is with Dr. Garry McDaniels, Director of the Division of Innovation and Development for the Bureau of Education for the Handicapped, USOE. The Bureau of Education for the Handicapped is responsible for administering federal funds for handicapped children through one of three major divisions: Innovation and Development, Aid to States, and Personnel Preparation. The primary utilization of learning disability funds, which derive from the Learning Disability Act of 1969 (which was Incorporated into the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1970), has been through programs under Dr. McDaniels' Division of innovation and Development. The learning disability Child Service Demonstration Centers, the Leadership Training Institute in Learning Disabilities (currently the National Learning Disability Assistance Project — NaLDAP), and the new learning disability research institutes have all been funded through the Division of Development and Innovation. — G.M.S.