Leveraging the Experiential Knowledge of Black Women Educators Who Have Children With Disabilities

• In Event: 45.093 - MTCC Roundtable Session 18
  In Roundtable Session: 45.093-11 - The Persistence of Women and Girls in Educational Settings

Abstract

Little is known about Black women navigating the special education process, especially, Black women educators. The purpose of this study was to document and interpret the unique experiences of Black women educators who have children with disabilities. Three key themes emerged: (1) need for improved staff cultural competence; (2) lack of relationship between staff and parents; and (3) improved partnership and engagement in the special education process. These findings have implications for the educators who serve millions of Black children with disabilities as well as the Black women who navigate the special education process in search of equitable resources and services for their children.

Author

• Renee L Garraway, Bowie State University