February 2008
	Editor's Note

No Time Like the Present

In Do It Now! William Knaus makes the case that you won't get caught in the procrastination trap if you act now. With that thought in mind, check out our stories on violence against educators and unlocking autism.  Prompt assessment and action can defuse potentially threatening situations. Early intervention in autism cases benefits the student, classmates, and staff alike. The perils of procrastination are highlighted by the federal government's 30-year failure to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Federal funding currently covers only 17 percent of the cost of educating students with special needs. Congress' year-end budget deal with the White House doesn't come close to the promised 40 percent, delaying full funding yet another year. Other stories in this issue show the value of acting now—Oklahoma reaps the rewards of offering universal preschool, and a couple of couples in a Maryland middle school make the most of matrimonial opportunities.

And if you haven't found that special Valentine for that special someone, do it now!

Editor Doug Walker
dwalker-neatoday@nea.org