Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Families and School-Based Partnerships: Building Understanding and Relationships in Service of Children With Disabilities

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 32
  In Roundtable Session: Partnering to Support Children With Disabilities

Abstract

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) stipulates that educators and parents work together to educate children with disabilities. Effective and responsive communication is critical for home-school partnerships to develop and thrive. This qualitative study examines the perspectives and experiences of ten culturally and linguistically diverse families’ navigating home/school partnerships in support of their children with disabilities. Interviews, field notes, and document reviews captured parental experiences and perspectives related to interactions with school personnel and related service providers. Results highlighted common concerns about the red tape involved in accessing special education services and the subsequent lack of humanity experienced by families in their home/school communicative exchanges, both of which posed serious threats to building effective home/school partnerships.

Author

• Tracy A. McLeod, Westfield State University