GEAR UP Focus Groups Project

2010

The developmental Disabilities Institute at Wayne State University (WSU-DDI) has been contracted by the The Arc Michigan, Michigan Alliance for Families Program to examine the inclusion of students with disabilities in the Michigan GEAR UP Program. The Michigan GEAR UP Program is a statewide, sustained and collaborative effort that provides early intervention services and scholarship opportunities to low-income, underrepresented students and parents. The goal of the GEAR UP program is to significantly increase the number of low-income, underrepresented students who complete high school and are prepared to enroll and succeed in postsecondary education. Often included in this group of underrepresented students are students who have disabilities. However, there currently exists a lack of knowledge as to how the GEAR UP Program has affected the educational outcomes of students with disabilities. WSU-DDI will address this gap by gathering data and feedback through a series interviews with school administrators and focus groups with students with disabilities and their parents located throughout the state of Michigan.

Performing Research or Evaluation

Education & Early Intervention

Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN

Disadvantaged Circumstances

State

N/A