Equitable Family-Professional Partnerships in Special Education

Equitable family-professional partnerships are an essential component in special education field. Equitable family-professional partnerships mean a collaborative relationship between families and professionals where both parties work together and build on each other’s strengths to reach the shared goals (i.e., students’ development and education). Family-professional partnerships can lead to positive student outcomes, trust, and improved communication among students, families, and educational professionals. Successfully implemented equitable family-professional partnerships can also help families from marginalized backgrounds who have children with disabilities. Most importantly, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 2004 emphasizes family participation regarding the Individualized Education Plan (IEP). However, having a clearer understanding of the components of equitable family-professional partnerships can help educational professionals effectively partner with families, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. This entry focuses on family-professional partnerships between educational professionals and families of children with disabilities. Specifically, it discusses the following topics: (a) definitions of family-professional partnerships, (b) components of equitable family-professional partnerships, and (c) strategies for partnering with families, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.