Unprecedented Times, Unprecedented Education: Challenges and Opportunities for Mothers of Students With Disabilities During COVID-19

• In Event: Improving Special and Inclusive Education Through Familial Perspectives and Experiences

Abstract

Due to COVID-19, education systems moved to remote learning in spring 2020, with no time for preparation. Therefore, we examine the experiences of parents of students with disabilities who attended public schools during the COVID-19 pandemic using the Disability Studies in Education (DSE) theoretical framework. Fifteen mothers of students with disabilities were interviewed via Zoom. Using constant-comparative analysis, we identified a theme revealing mothers' new identities as teachers, which brought challenges and opportunities. Mothers' challenges related to the school's overreliance on them, balancing responsibilities, the need to re-learn content, learn new technology, and the collision of identities. However, their teacher identity also generated new opportunities. Particularly, remote learning made school practices transparent, and mothers reconceptualized their children’s abilities and competence.

Authors

• Sultan Kilinc, Syracuse University
  Presenting Author

• Sara Jo Soldovieri, Syracuse University
  Presenting Author

• Mary Elizabeth Fitzgerald, Syracuse University
  Presenting Author