Regular education teachers who have students with disabilities in their classes may face challenging behaviors that have the potential to interfere with the learning process. The article describes some strategies that regular educators can use to successfully handle disruptive or distracting behaviors, focusing on prevention and problem solving.…

The paper discusses the need to restructure traditional approaches to classroom management in preservice teacher education, focusing on constructivist principles. A model for integrating constructivist principles at precollege and teacher education levels consists of four components (modeling, reflecting, actively involving students, and…

In inclusive schools, teachers must adjust classroom behavior management concepts to new classroom situations of learning and discipline. Collaboration with administrators and other staff members provides teachers with additional ideas and resources. The paper discusses why collaboration fails, why it is difficult, and necessary components for…

Inclusive classrooms are responsible for delivering appropriate education to culturally diverse and behaviorally at-risk students. The Intervention with Dissimilar Learners Model (IDL) addresses diverse student needs. Research shows that this four-level intervention system is effective. The paper explains the use of the IDL to increase positive…

Discusses issues involved in preparing teachers for an ethnically diverse pupil population. Recommendations for improving the preparation of an ethnically diverse teaching force are made for public school educators, university personnel, state legislators and educational agency personnel, educational organizations, and community and business…

Examines problems faced by first year teachers, focusing on the shortage of well-qualified minority group beginning teachers. Recommendations for inducting and retaining an ethnically diverse teaching force are offered, emphasizing the roles of public school educators, university personnel, state legislators and agencies, and advocacy and…

Discusses problems in attracting and retaining qualified minority group teachers. Some reasons minority teachers leave school districts are lack of an induction process, isolation from other faculty members, economics, and diminishing prestige of teaching. Recommendations involving universities, public schools, state legislators and agencies,…

Describes the Houston Independent School District's support program involving pairs of beginning and mentor teachers and several professional development specialists who support and train the mentors and help the novice teachers on a personal basis. The specialists are an important factor in retention and development of first year teachers,…