The last few years have been intensely challenging ones for many students with disabilities, their families, and their teachers. Despite the label that unites these students, the disabilities that lead to their identification are many and varied, so their supports should also vary. This is the thread that connects the articles in this issue: If educators and policymakers can figure out how to build an ecosystem where these students get the personalized supports they need to thrive, then it will truly be possible for all students.
Ensuring Students with Disabilities Leave School Ready to Succeed
By Kristin K. Liu, Martha L. Thurlow and Sheryl S. LazarusState boards can watch policies for red flags that hold students back.
Debunking Myths about Students with Disabilities
By Karla Phillips-KrivickasState policy should confront the pervasive low expectations that the outcomes reveal.
Supporting Students with Disabilities throughout the Year
By Elizabeth Barker and Angela JohnsonThe data point up a need for services that extend beyond the school year.
Reenvisioning the Future with Universal Design for Learning
By James D. BashamBuild a system that supports each student rather than a mythical average one.
Supporting English Learners with Disabilities
By Drew S. Fagan and Luis Javier Pentón HerreraEquitable education means overcoming challenges in identification, staff training, and funding.
Understanding Special Education Teacher Shortages
By David Peyton and Kelly AcostaState policies meaningfully affect recruitment and retention.
Opinion
The NASBE Interview: Dr. Lou Maynus and Joel Coleman
By Lou Maynus and Joel Coleman"We have to let them show what they can do and not just tell them they can do it."
From the President’s Pen: Committing to Equity for Students with Disabilities
By Paolo DeMariaThe truth is students with disabilities can master the expectations reflected in state academic content standards.
We the Media: What Matters Most to Parents
By Renée Rybak LangState boards can help parents play an active role in accelerating their children’s learning and development with evidence-based, accessible resources.
NCOSEA Voice: Masks and the Civil Rights of Students with Disabilities
By Colleen O'LaughinSchools and policymakers face [the challenge of] reasonable accommodations to ensure students with disabilities get meaningful access to education.
NCSBEE Voice: Ombudsman Provides Key Link for Families
By John-Paul Hayworth, Serena Hayes and Giselle MirandaThe state education ombudsman model that DC is using can be adapted in any state.
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