Assessing the Needs of Training on Special Education Knowledge and Skills for Public School Administrators

• In Event: Change Leadership Across Multiple Contexts

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the needs of training on knowledge and skills in special education for public school administrators who serve students with disabilities. A needs survey was created and validated by the researchers. Quantitative data were collected and analyzed. 486 public school administrators from one of the largest school district in the United States participated in this study. Data analysis revealed moderate needs of school administrators in training. Specific groups with different educational degrees, disability statues, and years of employment were found to have different needs for training on various areas based on the Council for Exceptional Children standards for Special Education Administrators. Results are discussed, and recommendations for future study are presented.

Authors

• Haiyan Bai, University of Central Florida

• Suzanne Martin, University of Central Florida