Intended for New York State school board members, the guide outlines the responsibilities of board members regarding education of handicapped students. An overview of state and federal rules and regulations is followed by sections on the board's role in the following areas: working with the Committee on the Handicapped, identifying children in need of special education, developing individualized education programs, assuring nondiscrimination and access to special education in the least restrictive environment, providing due process of law, and monitoring and training. An evaluation format for assessing local policies in light of state and federal mandates is included. (CL)