Framework and Guidelines for Utilization of Teams in Schools

A framework and guidelines are provided for considering possibilities for utilization of teams in schools. First, an “Organizational Systems Framework” is presented which allows for exploration of how teams, particularly multidisciplinary teams, might be employed to help carry out a range of tasks necessary to delivery of educational services. These services are those of assessment, instructional, related, personnel development, and administrative services. Second, guidelines are offered for deciding: (a) how teams might be readily incorporated into the school routine, (b) how teams might be developed and maintained and (c) how the utility of teams can be evaluated. Discussion emphasizes the importance of considering how teams can be utilized for educational service delivery tasks other than those having to do with special education pre-placement evaluation and planning.