Asian students left behind on special education
February 10th, 2008From the Boston Globe:
Asians make up 9 percent of students in Boston schools, but only 3 percent of those enrolled in special education, a disparity that has led to fears that many are not getting the help they need.
Even parents with children in special-education programs face cultural and language barriers to getting proper attention for students. Many families are hesitant to ask for help because of a cultural stigma of having children with disabilities. Some are reluctant to challenge school authorities, and others simply don’t know where to turn.
… “Chinese people are a little ashamed to let others know they have a child with special needs at home,” said Zhong Ruan, who reaches out to Chinese families on behalf of the Federation for Children with Special Needs …


