Disproportionality Fills in the Gaps: Special Education and the School-to-Prison Pipeline

• In Event: Roundtable Session 9
  In Roundtable Session: Disrupting Notions of “Normal”: Addressing the Needs of Students With Perceived Disabilities

Abstract

School to Prison Pipeline (StPP) research has focused on the achievement gap and racial disproportionality in school discipline. Though StPP literature mentions overrepresentation of students of color in special education, it is left largely unexplored. Using Critical Race Theory, we link disproportionate special education status with other racial disparities and re-frame these issues as institutionalized racism. Using Colorado as a case study, we illustrate the increasing overrepresentation of students of color as they move through the StPP. Second, we connect racial disproportionality trends in special education and disciplinary actions to the specific education policies and laws that contribute to racialized populations becoming part of the StPP. Finally, we discuss suggestions for improving racial equity.

Authors

• Subini Ancy Annamma, University of Denver

• Deb Morrison, University of Colorado - Boulder

• Darrell Jackson, University of Wyoming

• Graham Garlick