Definition of Special and Exceptional Children
- The term includes the mentally retarded, crippled, deaf and hard of hearing, speech handicapped, socially and emotionally disturbed, and gifted children.
Training Institutions and Credit Granting
- Institutions of learning selected by the Department of Education are authorized to carry out the training.
- These institutions shall grant the necessary academic credit to the teacher trainees.
Funding and Expenses
- All expenses such as tuition, fees, and stipends for teacher trainees shall be charged against the program's funds.
- Disbursement of funds is the responsibility of the Director of Public Schools.
Program Implementation and Integration
- The program shall include setting up pilot classes for special and exceptional children within regular schools.
- The goal is integration into the regular school program and encouragement of socialization.
- Special education should be conducted within regular school facilities whenever possible.
- Research and survey projects shall be established to identify and locate exceptional children needing services.
Scholarships and Trainee Preparation
- Annual scholarships will be created for prospective teachers undertaking training over the ten-year period.
- The program coordinator is responsible for ensuring that scholarship grantees and trainees are intellectually and emotionally prepared for special education.
Rules, Regulations, and Employment of Specialists
- The Secretary of Education shall issue necessary rules and regulations.
- The Secretary is authorized to employ specialists to implement the Act's provisions.
Appropriations and Funding
- An initial amount of ₱350,000 is appropriated from the National Treasury for the fiscal year 1968.
- Subsequent funding shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act as necessary for program operation.
Effectivity
- The Act takes effect upon its approval on June 15, 1968.