Dr. Fergus argues in this article that effectively utilizing data, considering potential solutions to misidentification in Special Education, and “practicing the pause” are three strategies that can start reversing disproportionality within special education. The pause Dr. Fergus speaks of is an intentional act to ask questions and understand the background and experiences of each student in order to determine what supports are needed to support positive outcomes. Dr. Fergus suggests three specific pauses that should be practiced to avoid or correct misidentifications of students as needing special education.
Fergus, Edward. 2022. Three Ways to Mitigate Special Education Disproportionality. Catapult Learning, https://catapultlearning.com/2022/03/15/three-ways-to-mitigate-special-education-disproportionality-by-dr-edward-fergus/ (accessed January 30, 2023).
