Hot Topics

N.J. Block Scheduling Survey   The purpose for the survey was to ascertain how many schools are currently using some form of flexible scheduling; how many are planning to do so in the near future; how many have no interest at this time and in finding evidence, if any, of improved student learning and to what extent teachers received training before engaging in this endeavor.

Block Scheduling-Innovations With Time discusses block scheduling models, keys for success, and advantages/concerns of block scheduling.

The Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement   part of the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Minnesota, maintains a web page on block scheduling with information and links to numerous other pages on the topic.

National Association For Gifted Children (NAGC)  is an organization of parents, educators, other professionals and community leaders who unite to address the unique needs of children and youth with demonstrated gifts and talents as well as those children who may be able to develop their talent potential with appropriate educational experiences.

This Gifted Resources Page  contains links to all known online gifted resources, enrichment programs, talent searches, summer programs, gifted mailing lists, and early acceptance programs, including CTY, EPGY, CTD, ERIC, Odyssey of the Mind, and many, many others. It contains inofrmatin for many local gifted associations and government (mostly state) programs.

The Gifted Child Society, founded by parents of New Jersey's Gifted Children, is a non-profit organizaiton that was founded in 1957 to further the cause of gifted children. Its goals are (1) educational enrichment and support services specifically designed for gifted children; (2) assistance to parents in raising gifted children to full and productive adulthood; (3) professional training to encourage educators to meet the special needs of these children; and (4) a greater effort to win public recognition and acceptance of these special needs.

The Council For Exceptional Children is the largest international professional organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities, students with disabilities, and/or the gifted.

ERIC Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted Education is one of 16 federally funded clearinghouses in the ERIC system, a national information network sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Educational Research and Improvement (OERI), and administered by the National Library of education to focus on information and resources relating to the education and development of individuals of all ages who have disabilities and/or who are gifted.

Parental Rights in Special Education  As a parent of a child who is being considered for or is receiving special education benefits, you have certain rights which are protected by state and federal law. Topics such as notification, consent, evaluation, and I.E.P.s (Individualized Education Program) provide important information to you-the parent.

Special Needs Education Numerous links to government, organizations, education issues, technology issues, specific needs, and more.

National Disability Organizations and Agencies lists scores of links.

Discussion Groups

Parenting-L is an Internet discussion group on topics related to parenting children (including child development, education, and care) from birth to adolescence. Discussions range from family leave and parental rights issues, to parents as partners in their children's education, to the changes we see in our children as they leave high school and begin college or get their first job.

On-Line Interactive Poll The Bergen County Leaders Forum. In Bergen County, there are several issues that concern us all. From Blue Laws to Infrastructure, Education to Government, everybody has his/her own opinion on each issue. This is the place for you to share your opinions, and see what other people think about the issues that concern you the most. Visit their WebBoard and keep in touch with Leaders in Bergen County.

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