Knowledge Is Power: Training Immigrant Families of Students With Disabilities to Be School Partners

• In Event: Roundtable Session 96
  In Roundtable Session: Involving Families of Children With Disabilities

Abstract

Research consistently suggests that families from diverse backgrounds are less likely to be equipped to take on active roles as decision-makers and advocates. Although home-school partnership is important, community involvement is equally crucial. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of a community-based training program on preparing 15 immigrant families to be advocates of their children with disabilities and be school partners. Surveys and interviews were used in the study. Results indicated that parent participants not only became actively involved in their child’s special education process, but also took leadership roles at their child’s school and in the community. Implications of the findings will be discussed.

Author

• Lusa Lo, University of Massachusetts - Boston