District and Community Partners develops, collects, and shares leading edge research in the field of special education. All entries in our resource library approach the topic from the vantage point of increasing student achievement, improving parent satisfaction, and controlling costs at the same time.

We welcome your suggestions for additional resources to be included in our library.

The 10 Steps to Raising Academic Achievement of Students with Special Needs while Reducing Costs

Learn how proven best practices can help your students, improve your budget, and increase parent satisfaction. A practical, easy to read guide that has achieved significant gains. It is far reaching, yet very common sense.


Rethinking Special Education

Rethinking Special EducationA proven best-practice approach to raising achievement for students with special needs while reducing cost. As school budgets tighten, school districts must learn to do more with less. Here is how…


Success Stories: Effective Practices for Students with Special Needs

The Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy identified and analyzed effective practices in raising achievement of students with special needs. The report identifies the core practices of districts ranking in the top 5-10% for growth in the performance of students with special needs in Massachusetts.

Can Over Reliance on Paraprofessionals Harm a Child’s Progress?

This article is based on US Office of Special Education research that chronicles the pitfalls of over reliance on teaching assistants and suggests alternatives that better meet student needs and are more cost effective. A thought provoking new look at a complex issue.

A Nationwide Overview of Delivering and Managing Special Education More Efficiently

Get a snapshot of trends in special education and how innovative districts have responded to greater cost pressures and higher expectations for student achievement.





"The Opportunity Review created focus, energy and a practical plan. It took a complicated issue and made it manageable. The review was our launching pad for continuous improvements. Both children and the budget will benefit."

Frank Alvarez, Superintendent, Montclair Public Schools (NJ)


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