“The authors ask that we not concern ourselves with the kind of labeling and sorting that can serve to reinforce the negative stereotypes that this country’s history has spawned. We just need to teach students what they need to know.”
—From the Foreword by Lisa D. Delpit, Florida International University

This powerful book examines the disproportionate placement of Black and Hispanic students in special education. The authors present compelling stories representing the range of experiences that culturally and linguistically diverse students are apt to face in school. They examine the children’s experiences, their families’ interactions with school personnel, the teachers’ and schools’ estimation of the children and their families, and the school climate that influences decisions about referrals. Based on the authors’ work in a large, culturally diverse school district, the book concludes with recommendations for improving educational practice, teacher training, and policy renewal.

Features:

• Examples that reveal how social processes and stereotypical expectations often lead to an inaccurate designation of disability.
• Real-life portraits showing that “risk” exists in schools, not only in families and communities.
• Recommendations for improving the placement process, including provisions based on a demonstrated need, rather than on a disability classification.

Beth Harry is a professor of special education in the Department of Teaching and Learning at the University of Miami, Florida. She is the author of Cultural Diversity, Families, and the Special Education System.Janette Klingner is an associate professor at the University of Colorado, Boulder.