Becoming Change Agents: Stories of Pre-Service Special Educators of Color

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 9:45 am - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Equity, Advocacy, and Inclusive Futures: Perspectives on Special Education Practices

Abstract

Three pre-service special education teachers of color shared how their personal experiences with the public education system and special education services for their children or family members influenced their decision to pursue the profession and advocate for change. Using qualitative thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006), the study explored their dual roles as professionals and family members. Three themes emerged: 1) experiences with diagnosis, eligibility, and services, highlighting barriers, biases, and their impacts; 2) family experiences with school and community support, both positive and negative, and coping strategies; and 3) professional experiences shaped by motivations, rewarding teaching moments, and ongoing challenges. These themes offer insight into how their roles as parents/family members have shaped their professional perspectives.

Authors

• Jemma Kim, California State University - San Bernardino

• Sherri Franklin-Guy, California State University - San Bernardino

• Young Suk Hwang, California State University - San Bernardino