Support for the beginning special educator through high quality mentoring

Approximately 50% of school districts across the nation have reported barriers in obtaining highly qualified teachers (U.S. Department of Education, 2009). Beginning special education teachers report that they often feel they lack the prerequisite skills for working with their students, particularly students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Special educators often feel unsupported and overwhelmed by the continuous changes in districts related to No Child Left Behind (NCLB). Additionally, nationwide alternative programs are being developed as a means for special education teachers to clear their credential outside of the university setting. The need for support of these teachers in today\u27s schools is critical. This article highlights best practices for development of high quality mentoring for beginning special education teachers based on meaningful relationships, guidance, and reflective practices

Options for organization and operation of space applications transfer centers

The benefits of developing regional facilities for transfer of NASA developed technology are discussed. These centers are designed to inform, persuade, and serve users. Included will be equipment for applications and demonstrations of the processes, a library, training facilities, and meeting rooms. The staff will include experts in the various techniques, as well as personnel involved in finding and persuading potential users

Energy Conservation in Uniroyal, Inc.

In the last year, rapid developments have led to the establishment of industry conservation goals and monitoring by the Department of Commerce and the Federal Energy Administration via the various industry associations. Since 1972, Uniroyal has progressed more than half way toward the 1980 goal of 15% established for the rubber and chemical industries. This paper will describe details of the program with emphasis on new input, such as the computerized tracking method now in use. Plant studies have provided an assessment of base loads vs. process loads, important when considering unit energy consumption. These vary, particularly with the climate and with the ratio of electrical to fuel energy inputs. Also, in-plant metering of steam has produced some surprises. Priorities for projects and lines of attack for conservation depend upon such analyses. Of great importance is the energy content of raw materials and programs to reduce or recycle rejected portions. A study of organization for conservation in various other companies was made to develop recommendations for improving the Uniroyal program. A composite of the best features will be presented