Critical Review Through an Intersectional Lens: Caregiver Training in Special Education

• In Event: Family and Community Supports for Individuals With Disabilities

Abstract

Ensuring parent participation in special education is a key mandate of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Despite this, caregivers of color, particularly from marginalized communities, face institutional barriers in advocating for their children’s rights under IDEA. This critical review synthesized 20 studies to examine how training interventions address the intersectional needs of caregivers of color in special education. Findings indicate that caregiver interventions positively impact caregivers’ participation, advocacy skills, and special education knowledge. However, a small number of caregiver training interventions were designed and implemented with support mechanisms responsive to caregivers of color’s intersectional needs, including bilingual support. The review highlights the urgent need to address caregivers’ intersectional needs to advance equity in special education.

Authors

• Jane Y. Jeong, University of Texas at Austin

• Dosun Ko, Santa Clara University

• Yehyang Lee, Syracuse University