This proceedings, containing 69 paper and poster presentations, focuses on innovation and hope with a glance to the future. The conference was planned to include theoretical discussions, current research findings, and promising practices based on sound evidence. Current issues in special education include the use of technology, integrating theory and practice for all ages, and effective professional development. The proceedings is organized to correspond to conference strands: at-risk students, collaborative education models, early childhood special education, gifted education, leadership and policy issues, multicultural education, parents and families, professional development, technology, transition, and understanding issues of low incidence disabilities. (Author/SV)