The Indigenous Perspective on Disability and Special Education in Public Schools: A Professional Development for School Staff Supporting Students in Special Education for School Staff Supporting Students in Special Education

Abstract

As this guide focuses on supporting education professionals, it is specifically geared towards those in the special education sector and/or supporting students going through evaluation for, or already receiving, special education services. While those in special education, including teachers, psychologists, counselors, speech language pathologists, physical and occupational therapists, etc., are all highly trained and qualified in their certified area(s), there is a lack of supportive trainings in understanding students’ cultural background as a component to the discussions and services around special education. Specifically, there is very limited information available for supporting students from Indigenous communities and even fewer resources on the special education population.