What is the most effective strategy for reducing disproportionality for ethnic minority students?
A. Disproportionality is a multi-faceted problem. A district should base its strategy on the unique situation of that district. For example, some districts’ problems stem from disproportionate placement of ESL students, whereas other districts’ problems may deal with disproportionate representation of African American males in special education. Although there are some commonalties for dealing with these issues, the approaches that are used to address the underlying problems associated with each will surely differ. Research has shown that reducing disproportionality requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses teacher training, culturally appropriate assessment and instruction, cultural sensitivity, home and school collaboration, and an effective pre-referral process. Each district must work through a problem-solving process that includes, but is not limited to, analyzing of the problem, identifying of existing resources, allocating and using resources, and correcting current pra
