The Unspecial Place of Special Education in Programs that Prepare School Administrators

Abstract

What is the place of special education in programs that prepare school administrators? In this article, we explore this question by: (1) reviewing selected contemporary literature including recent recommendations for improving educational administration programs; (2) reanalyzing relevant data from a national study; and (3) reporting the results of recent interviews with selected high school principals. The conclusion reached is that special education is treated inadequately (if at all) in programs designed to prepare school administrators. Based upon this body of information collected and our experience with our own principal preparation program, recommendations are discussed concerning why and how special education should have a place in these programs.