Knowledge Development

Learning What Works

Knowledge development activities that result in the identification of effective dropout prevention interventions and educational reentry programs targeted for students with disabilities are one of the major undertakings of this project. This work serves as the "core" or nucleus of the Center's work. Knowledge development tasks involve:

1. conducting an annual survey of states to determine the current status of implementation of scientifically validated dropout prevention and education and reentry programs;
2. synthesizing existing research and practice pertaining to dropout prevention and reentry programs for students with disabilities;
3. identifying effective exemplary programs for wide replication; and
4. analyzing states’ Indicators 1 and 2 (Graduation and Dropout) data from the State Performance Plans and Annual Performance Reports and summarizing this information for dissemination.

The ultimate goal of the Center's knowledge development activities is to synthesize what is currently known about dropout prevention for students with disabilities, and to develop a series of high-quality products that can be used by states in designing and developing effective dropout prevention programs. All of the Center's other major activities (i.e., technical assistance, collaboration, and dissemination) stem from this major enterprise.

Research Syntheses

Syntheses of research examining effective practices in dropout prevention and school completion for students with disabilities

Practice Guides

Guides to help teachers and school staff put research-based practices into place to support students with disabilities

SEA Survey

NDPC-SD’s annual survey of state practices and programs

Analyses of State Data

Summaries of states’ goals, performance data, and improvement activities for Indicators 1 and 2

SPP Toolkit Series