Vocational Education for Students with Special Needs in Rural America: Problems and Solutions

Changes within society, the work force, and education all contribute to a need for appropriate employment options upon graduation for students with special needs living in rural America. Due in part to these dramatic changes, vocational education programming is becoming increasingly important to these students. This article examines issues surrounding the delivery of vocational education to students with disabilities in rural communities. These issues are discussed in terms of the unique challenges and opportunities encountered by rural vocational special educators and the students they serve. Implications for current and future service delivery options for vocational education are also discussed.