This report analyzes the literature on the issues involved in providing summer school services to handicapped students (3-21 years old) in Illinois. Introductory sections examine the state legislative history regarding summer school and judicial decisions from across the country on the topic. A review of the literature is presented followed by analysis of the benefits resulting from summer school programs. Positive outcomes in academic, personal, and social achievement areas are reported despite a lack of rigorous empirical evidence to support such claims. Practical issues of eligibility determination and insufficient funding sources are noted. It is recommended that eligibility guidelines be incorporated in the mandate to provide summer school for handicapped children. (CL)