Understanding Teacher Professional Knowledge Related to School-to-Community Transition for Student with Disabilities

The purpose of this community-based research project is to develop a detailed understanding of both general and special education teachers’ perceptions of and practices related to the transition from high school to the community for adolescents with disabilities. This project is based on the context of a broader research-practice partnership with Everett Public Schools in the area of special education. The work that will be done in this research project has been co-designed with Everett Public Schools and is intended to inform policy and practice in the school district and also extend the research literature.

• Short-term: Determine what the state of professional practice in transition education is in Everett Public Schools.
• Long-term: Extend what is known about the day-to-day practice of transition education and positively impact special education policy and practice in the partner school district.

Student Qualifications

• Demonstrated interest in special education and or disability studies,
• Demonstrated interest in teaching and learning in public schools,
• Demonstrated interest in social science research, and
• Ability to work collaboratively

Student Responsibilities

This is a long-term project and has already started. Students should commit to 5 or more hours per week for at least two quarters which includes meetings/training.