In 1996, Harry and Trudy Monti became acquainted with a very special group of magicians, Merlin and the Court Jesters.  This group is sponsored by the Nashville, Tennessee Parks and Recreation Department and all of the magicians are mentally challenged.  As a result of the Montis' association with this unique group, the Society of American Magicians, during Harry's term as National President in 1999-2000, passed a resolution to develop a program for instructors of special education students to use to teach magic to their students.  Following is an outline of this unique program.

 Magic for Special Education

The Society of American Magicians is committed to establishing a national program teaching magic to special education students.  This unique "no cost" magic program has been used successfully with mentally retarded individuals to:

·           Improve mental skills;

·           Improve physical skills;

·           Improve reading skills;

·           Improve self-esteem;

·           Establish a team concept when performing tasks;

·           Establish pride in belonging to a national magic organization; and

·           Promote positive public relations within the community.

     And please note this program is offered to special education instructors, counselors, etc., at "ABSOLUTELY NO CHARGE."

     The program has been designed for use in schools, facilities/homes providing extended care for those who are mentally retarded, and also for independent groups (similar to a Scout group) with a leader/instructor.  It is comprised of several steps as follows:

1.     The Society of American Magicians will publicize the new program and provide informational materials regarding the program to the community, educators, and all others interested in working with the mentally retarded.

2.     Instructors or individuals interested in using the program with their special group/class will submit a formal application to the Society of American Magicians.  (This application may be ascertained from this website - www.magicsam.com.  It can be printed by your computer and mailed to the address on the application with the appropriate backup.

3.     Level I - Learning the Initial Basic Magic  --  The Society of American Magicians will review the application and, upon acceptance of the application, will provide materials to the instructor to implement Level I of the program in his/her classroom.  These materials will include an instructional videotape with step-by-step visual instruction for performing the magic tricks.  It is anticipated that within a two-month period, students will be able to master at least one or two of the magic tricks provided.  All tricks in Level I can be made from ordinary household items (i.e. a 2-liter soda bottle, etc.) which can be obtained by the instructor at virtually no cost.  In addition, whenever necessary, individual personal instruction will be provided by local magicians.

4.     Level II - Forming a Society of American Magicians Assembly  --  After all students have mastered a trick, the instructor is encouraged to videotape a magic show performed by his/her class and submit this along with membership applications, to the Society of American Magicians.  Upon acceptance of these applications, and proof of magic accomplishment, the Society will accept the group as a new Assembly and provide the Assembly with its own charter.  Every attempt will be made to have a National Officer or other Society of American Magicians representative travel to the class to present the charter.  (Submission of a videotape will be waived when application is submitted with signed sponsors on the membership application.)

5.     Level III - Mastering the Magic in Level I  --  It will probably take another four to six months for a class of special education students to master a 15-minute performance where each performer is trained to perform all the tricks.  This includes training in how to move on stage and transition each trick so as to provide a smooth and well-routined magic show.  Again, whenever possible, individual instruction will be available from local magicians.

6.     Level IV - Adding Small Stage Illusions to the Magic Perfected in Levels I and III  Upon completion of Level III, an instructor may send another video tape of the magic show being performed by the class and apply for more advanced magic illusions.  Approximately six new small stage-type illusions will then be provided to add more color and excitement to the current magic show.  It is anticipated that these props will be provided at no cost, depending on funds available within our society.  Again, whenever possible, individual instruction will be available from local magicians.

7.     Level V - Adding Larger Stage Illusions to the Magic Perfected in Level IV  --  If a class/group shows that they have perfected the magic tricks and small stage illusions provided, the instructor may apply for larger, "more sophisticated" illusions.  Depending on the group, the probability that these larger illusions will be effectively used, and the funds available, these illusions will also be provided at no cost.

     The above steps outline the basic plan for using magic as a teaching tool for special education students.  It is anticipated all classes can and should progress through Level IV.  Incorporating larger illusions will require a larger investment in magic props and more dedication on the part of the instructors.  Therefore, reaching Level V may not be appropriate for all groups, but it is hoped that perhaps at least one group in each metropolitan city will achieve this level.