Disproportionality in District Disability Placement

• In Event: Poster Session
  In Poster Session: Poster Session: Social Context of Education

Abstract

Researchers cannot agree as to whether or not Black students are overrepresented or underrepresented in special education programs (Brackmann, 2016). This pilot research study adds to the literature and conversation with new perspectives on the issue. The first study (Study 1) presents data from 52 school districts throughout the state of Ohio. The independent variables are the total population percentages of Black students and White students enrolled in a school district. The dependent variables are the proportions of Black students compared to White students enrolled in special education in the school district. For the purpose of this study the race of a student is defined as those who identify as a single race; either Black or White. The second study repeats Study 1 within the state of Kentucky with 176 school districts within the state. The third study also repeats Study 1 within the state of Mississippi with 158 school districts. This study seeks to answer the question of disproportionality through the use of a disproportionality index to investigate this complex issue.

Authors

• Holly Endres, National Heritage Academies-Orion Academy

• Victoria Zascavage, Xavier University

• Leigh Anne Prugh, Xavier University