Special education policy and services in Newfoundland and Alberta were examined and compared. The two provinces were chosen because of legislative policy differences in the provision of special education, large proportions of nonurban citizens, and a recent tenfold increase in services. Analysis of surveys completed by 30 school boards in Newfoundland and 72 in Alberta revealed that many districts have been providing extensive services for handicapped children. However, the majority of districts do not provide explicit policy on rights of exceptional children. Comparison with survey results from British Columbia and New Brunswick revealed substantial consistency across the provinces. Districts indicated the need for policy on issues of pupil referral, assessment, programing and placement, and on communication with parents. (The appendixes include a 25-page literature review and the survey questionnaire.) (CL)