The online Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Education in Special Education K-12 program offered by Arkansas State University (A-State) prepares the next generation of educators to build robust family-school partnerships based on clear communication, mutual respect and creative solutions. The federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) makes it clear that parents must be equal partners in shaping their child’s education, especially when that student has needs that go beyond what is offered in a traditional classroom.
Research shows that when educators and families work together, students do better academically, socially and emotionally. With nearly 7.5 million students nationwide receiving services under IDEA — including about 16 percent of public school students in Arkansas — the need for this type of intentional collaboration has never been greater.
Strengthening Family-school Partnerships
Building authentic partnerships takes more than simply meeting legal requirements. Parents of children with disabilities often bring years of advocacy experience, along with the fatigue that comes from navigating complicated systems. Teachers who start with deep listening rather than with the intention to demonstrate expertise show families they’re valued and respected.
Other strategies for building trust include creating a welcome survey for new students and families that focuses on what brings their children joy, their top strengths or passions and the things that have helped them succeed in the past. Once completed, educators and administrators can build a collaborative environment for shaping the child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), which lays out the specialized instruction, services and accommodations a student will receive to succeed in school.
IDEA guarantees that parents have a voice in the process of setting measurable goals and receiving services for their child, according to the National Center for Learning Disabilities. Edutopia suggests making IEP meetings more collaborative rather than procedural or simply ensuring compliance with the law. Creating space for parents to provide feedback and creating a culturally responsive communication plan — such as ensuring translation services are available — are crucial to building relationships that can withstand conflict.
Nicole Greene, a special education teacher and member of the Council for Exceptional Children Diversity Committee, says it can often “feel overwhelming” to support students from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. But building a connection with kids and their families ensures progress is achieved in the classroom and outside of it. Greene emphasizes, “If we aren’t seeing families as partners in their children’s education, we are failing.”
Using Co-teaching Models to Improve Student Outcomes
Collaboration doesn’t stop with families. More and more schools are using co-teaching models, where general education and special education teachers work together to support all students in an inclusive setting. There’s no one-size-fits-all model, according to Understood. Some districts instruct both teachers to lead the lesson together, like co-presenters. Other times, the class is split in half so each teacher can deliver the same material to smaller groups.
In some classrooms, students rotate through stations while teachers present content in different ways. With the alternative teaching model, one teacher may lead the whole group while the other works with a smaller set of students who need extra help. What makes co-teaching powerful is its flexibility and the ability for teachers to combine their strengths, adjust instruction in real time and make sure every learner has a chance to succeed.
A-State’s online B.S. in Education in Special Education program provides educators with the foundational skills they need to make an immediate difference in the lives of their students. The Inclusive Practices for Students with Disabilities course introduces rising educators to co-teaching models and the practical realities of educating students with learning differences, enabling them to design sustainable and effective learning environments. The program also offers the Family and Community Systems course, which focuses on strategies for developing culturally responsive partnerships with families and ensuring educators know how to build trust and collaborate with caregivers from all backgrounds.
Develop Your Ability to Create Collaborative Learning Environments
Students in Arkansas State University’s online B.S. in Education in Special Education program complete the program with an in-depth understanding of what it takes to build trust with families while preparing their students to thrive beyond the classroom. Educators develop technical skills as well as their ability to effectively communicate and work as part of a team.
Graduates gain the collaborative skills and cultural competency needed to create truly inclusive classrooms where every student can reach their full potential. This comprehensive preparation positions graduates to become leaders who can build meaningful partnerships, advocate effectively for diverse learners, and make a lasting impact throughout their careers.
Learn more about A-State University’s online Bachelor of Science in Education in Special Education K-12 program.