Retrenchment's Impact on Service for Young Handicapped Children

Abstract

This paper reports a pilot survey of administrators' and professionals' perceptions of the impact of recent economic constraints and retrenchment on the nature and quality of special education services for young, severely handicapped children. The survey assessed changes relative to staff issues, educational environment, individualized programs, interagency activity, services to families, and training. Important decreases in staff morale, availability of therapeutic services, funds for replacement and purchase of materials, and level of service to families were noted. To a lesser extent, respondents reported an increase in the number of skills taught and increased involvement with outside agencies, especially for family and therapeutic services. Comparison of teacher and administrator responses showed major overlap but some important discrepancies. The findings are discussed in terms of short-term and long-term implications for early childhood special education and teacher training.