Chapter 1: Enhancing Partnerships in Special Education: Rationale

Effective partnerships are based on mutual trust and respect, and shared responsibility for the education of students. For instance, families dramatically influence the degree to which students are engaged in schools. A strong family-school partnership improves both academic and behavioral outcomes for students. As a result, developing effective partnerships with families is important for all students; but, it can be particularly critical when working with families whose children receive special educational services and supports or with families whose home cultures differ significantly from that of the school (Henderson & Mapp, 2002). This chapter defines partnership in special education, reviews factors that can impede partnerships, and offer suggestions for collaboration, consultation, and cooperation. In addition, it sets the stage for the other chapters in this book.