A nationwide study examining the trend toward or away from categorical teacher certification in special education was conducted. Responses from both state directors of special education and state certification officers were obtained at a rate of 100% and 98%, respectively. Some discrepancies between responses from state officials were noted. Although states offering categorical certification alone outnumber those offering only noncategorical certification, the results of this study indicate a trend toward noncategorical models, as well as wide variation from state to state. Specific recommendations emphasizing interagency collaboration and task force sponsorship are included.
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