First Advisor

Julie Esparza Brown

Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership: Special and Counselor Education

Department

Special Education

Language

English

Subjects

Special education -- United States, Minorities -- Education -- United States, Ability grouping in education -- United States

Abstract

This study used Improvement Science to understand and address the overrepresentation of Latine students identified with specific learning disabilities (SLD) in elementary school settings. It highlighted the processes and systems that impacted Latine students’ educational opportunities and services—emphasizing the need for culturally and linguistically aligned instructional practices. The study was set in a suburban school district in the Pacific Northwest, where many Latine students received special education services. It investigated the root causes of SLD over-identification among these students. It suggested that enhancing educational outcomes required a focused effort to reduce over- and under-identification in special education. The document now details the examination of the disproportionate representation of Latine students in SLD and the involvement of a biliteracy specialist in addressing these issues. The study advocated for a systemic approach, including professional development, culturally responsive practices, and a data-driven decision-making process to address the disparities. The goal of the study was to reduce the risk ratio of Latine students being identified with SLD to a proportionate amount and improve the referral and evaluation process. The Dissertation in Practice underscored the need for comprehensive and collaborative efforts to tackle the overrepresentation of Latine students in special education and advocated for equitable educational practices that considered these students' cultural and linguistic assets.

Rights

© 2025 Jesabel Centeno

Licensed under under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.

Comments

A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership: Special and Counselor Education

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/44053

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