
Disproportionality
Disproportionality in special education exists when a student of a racial or ethnic group is more likely to be identified as having a disability, be placed in more restrictive settings, or receive disciplinary removals. A student is identified if after evaluation they are determined to have a disability that qualifies them for an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Placement refers to the amount of time a student with an IEP spends in regular education settings. Discipline removals include removals from the student’s usual classroom due to a discipline event.