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The identification of specific learning disabilities (SLD) remains fraught with controversy and uncertainty about professionals' capacity to appropriately identify special education eligibility. For students from linguistically minoritized backgrounds, the exclusionary clause prohibits the identification of learning difficulties primarily attributable to contextual or linguistic factors. Yet the ambiguity of the federal language may hinder application, making critical states' interpretation and corresponding guidance for professional practice in eligibility determination. In this archival study, we systematically reviewed state departments' education policies and related guidance on the identification of multilingual learners with SLD, with a focus on how states have articulated policies and procedures related to the federal exclusionary clause. Our findings demonstrate variability and depth of information across states pertaining to guidance regarding the exclusionary clause. Implications for practice and policy are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides an overview of the journal Exceptional Children (EC) and its goals of promoting equitable educational access and outcomes for children with disabilities. The editors emphasize the importance of inclusiveness and diversity in the publication process, as well as expanding the theoretical and methodological diversity of scholarship in EC. The newly appointed associate editors, who come from diverse backgrounds and have expertise in various areas related to the education of students with disabilities, are introduced. The article also includes summaries of recent research articles on a range of topics related to special education. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides an overview of the editorial goals and perspectives of the journal Exceptional Children, which focuses on critical issues in special education. The editors emphasize the importance of viewing special education as a civil rights issue and promoting diversity and inclusiveness in the publication process. They identify four key issues impacting special education and invite scholarly works that address these issues and offer solutions. The article also discusses the importance of implementation science, technical assistance, and diverse methodologies in special education research. It includes summaries of five articles that cover various topics in special education. The authors express their commitment to learning from the past and advancing special education research. [Extracted from the article]