Student Evaluation; *Vocational Evaluation

When legislation extended vocational assessment services to limited English proficient and economically/educationally disadvantaged students, which comprise 72 percent of grade 8-12 students in Norfolk (Virginia) Public Schools, innovations were needed to offer expanded services without additional personnel. A multiphase model of vocational assessment for special populations was developed, based on interviews with leaders in the field of vocational evaluation, a statewide survey of vocational evaluation centers, and a review of the literature. The Management Information Systems office tabulated information on students to identify those who met federal and state definitions of special populations. The middle school guidance and testing personnel added the Differential Aptitude Test to their testing program. Thus, the practicum resulted in all eighth grade students receiving a vocational aptitude and interest test, students with disabilities receiving streamlined vocational evaluation services, and fewer students needing a comprehensive vocational evaluation. The model has been cost-effective and complies with regulations. Appendixes provide survey forms, survey data, and administrative documents. (Contains approximately 60 references.) (JDD) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document