Current research places an emphasis on outcomes, rather than the processes, that lead to disproportionality in special education. In most instances, referrals for special education are based on teacher perception, rather than data. Using a norm-referenced self-report instrument to assess behavioral and emotional risk, this study compared those…

In this article, optimal resource theory (ORT) is introduced as a research framework to enhance student outcomes and inform best-practices in schools. ORT uses historical research perspectives and limitations from existing theories to inform its development. ORT principles are described and a national dataset is used to demonstrate the efficacy of…

The purpose of this study was to present the academic experiences and perspectives of undergraduate African American male students labeled with disabilities. This study was intended to investigate an underexplored area that crosses the boundaries of ethnicity, disability, and postsecondary education. The students' reflections offer three key…

For the data presented in this report, the author analyzed 17,587 Black, Hispanic, and White male and female students (Black males; N = 1,149) who completed the High School Longitudinal Study of 2009 (Ingels et al., 2011). This is a brief report from a larger study completed under the auspices of the National Dropout Prevention Center for Students…

African American males are overrepresented among youth in special education identified as having emotional and behavioral disorders. Compared to other youth in special education, they have the least access to needed services and the worst social and academic outcomes. Little empirically supported guidance exists to inform the development of…

Longitudinal research on reading curricula and skills that predict future reading achievement for African American males in special education is quite limited. Using a national sample over a five-year period, this study highlights reading skills most associated with later reading achievement for African American males in special education. For…

The use of appropriate interventions is a critical component of educating students, particularly African Americans in special education. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of guided notes on the academic performance of eight African American boys identified as having emotional or behavioral disorders (EBD) and learning…

Examines juvenile correctional facilities, populations served, and educational programs offered. Statistics on social indicators for young African American males, who are overrepresented in the juvenile correctional system, create a profile of incarcerated youth. Examines the role of special education programs in placing young African American…

Focuses on the issues related to the student classification process and the disproportionate placement of black males in special education programs. The meaning and implications of the following classifications are discussed: educable mental retardation, serious emotional disturbance, specific learning disability, speech impairment, and trainable…

Describes the work of the Toussaint Institute, a nonprofit organization that places African-American male students in about 53 African-American independent schools in New York City. The institute investigates the schools, places and monitors students, and helps schools become local and national resources. Advantages of these schools are described.…