Home-School Partnerships a Fundamental Path to Providing Equitable Education and Services for Children With Disabilities

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 15
  In Roundtable Session: Emancipatory Pedagogies: Engaging Justice, Power, and Teacher Identity

Abstract

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) not only stipulates that educators and parents work together but it also implies that both shares responsibilities in providing children with disabilities equitable education and services. 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 their interactions with school personnel. The results indicated that effective and responsive communication is critical for home-school partnerships to develop and thrive. Also, the red tape involved in accessing special education posed serious threats to providing equitable educational services and building home/school partnerships.

Author

• Tracy A. McLeod, Westfield State University