A Case Study of a Small Learning Community Designed to Serve Students With Disabilities

• In Event: 68.062 - Poster Session 15
  In Poster Session: 68.062-5 - Applied Research in School: Teaching and Learning

Abstract

This case study presents one school district’s effort to address the needs of students with disabilities (SWDs) through the implementation of a home-grown small learning community. The creation of the program was in response to an effort to improve the implementation of inclusive practices through collaboration among general education and special education teachers and to increase the academic achievement and engagement of SWDs through a course that provided preteaching of content and skills. This study describes the first phases of the evaluation which included a survey of students, focus groups with teachers, and in-depth interviews with school leaders. Findings suggest that the program has promise but additional resources such as professional development and more school leadership support are needed.

Authors

• Leila Richey Nuland, Hanover Research

• Katherine Unger

• Clinton Page, Alexandria City Public Schools

• Louisa Jelaco