Exceptional children are different in some significant way from others of the same age. For these children to develop their full adult (36) , their education must be (37) to those differences. Although we focus on the needs of exceptional children, we find ourselves (38) their environment as well. Both the family and the society in which exceptional children live are often the key to their growth and development. And it is in the public schools that we find the full (39) of society’s understanding — the knowledge, hopes, and fears that are (40) on to the next generation. Education in any society is a mirror of that society. In that mirror we can see the strengths, the weaknesses, the hopes, the (41) , and the central values of the culture itself. The great interest in exceptional children shown in public education over the past three decades (42) the p feeling in our society that all citizens, whatever their special conditions, (43) the opportunity to fully develop their capabilities. "All men are created equal." We’ve heard it many times, but it still has important meaning for education in a democratic society. (44) That concept implies educational opportunity for all children — (45) Recent court decisions have confirmed the right of all children to an appropriate education, (46) In response, schools are modifying their programs, adapting instruction to children Who are exceptional, to those who cannot profit substantially from regular programs.
