Dismantling Disproportionality: A Culturally Responsive and Sustaining Systems Approach

Disproportionality in special education is a broader issue of educational inequality, caused by chronic socioeconomic and racial inequalities. Dismantling Disproportionality offers a concrete, multipronged approach to disrupt and dismantle disproportionality in education, using a culturally responsive educational systems approach that critically engages practitioners at the intersection of beliefs, policies, procedures, and practices.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2022
Publisher: Teachers' College Press

Dismantling Disproportionality: A Comprehensive Approach to Educational Inequality

Disproportionality in special education is not just a special education issue but a broader issue of educational inequality that mirrors the persistent history of chronic socioeconomic and racial inequalities in the country. These inequalities have resulted in denying educational opportunities to students of color, multilingual students, students with disabilities, and those at the intersections of these identities.

This book draws on the authors' experiences as technical assistance providers with the Center for Disproportionality, coupled with the latest research findings on the causes of racial disproportionality in general and special education. The authors aim to provide a comprehensive approach to dismantling disproportionality in education.

Dismantling Disproportionality examines four district case studies, showcasing how each progresses from theory to practice in delivering educational services to all students. The authors conclude that the most effective way to address disproportionality is to use a culturally responsive educational systems approach that critically engages practitioners at the intersection of beliefs, policies, procedures, and practices.

The book offers a concrete, multipronged approach to disrupt and dismantle disproportionality in education. It takes a systemic approach to disproportionality that centers culturally responsive and sustaining education. The framework described in the book can be used at the teacher and school building level, in teacher and leadership preparation programs, and with districts and state education agencies.

Furthermore, the book provides useful reflection questions, key takeaways, and tools for readers to apply in their work to address disproportionality in education. By recognizing and addressing the root causes of educational inequality, we can work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive education system for all students.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780807767375