Supporting Educational Achievement for Minorities (SEAM)

2012

The SEAM project will improve educational services, retention and postsecondary outcomes for minority students with disabilities, by providing parent training and support in the culturally diverse region of Southwest Detroit. The recruitment process will focus on families who have children ages 3-26, currently receiving special education services through the Detroit Public Schools or charter schools. The Southwest region of Detroit has Hispanic, African American and Arab families who are challenged by language and cultural barriers that promote an atmosphere of isolation and segregation. Training will be provided by Hispanic and African American parents of children with disabilities, who are recognized leaders in this community. The training content will be responsive to adult learners? needs and be in the native language of the participants. Training curriculum will be designed to teach parents how to understand the educational needs of their children, increase parental school participation, promote navigation of the complex educational system, the Individualized Education Plan process and designing meaningful transition plans for students over the age of 16 that truly support community connections. SEAM will ultimately support the successful education outcomes of children by increasing inclusion in the schools and community where minority families live. The goal of SEAM is to educate and support a minimum of 20 minority families per year in Southwest Detroit to successfully navigate the special education system.

Education, Inclusion, training, Southwest Detroit, Minorities

Performing Technical Assistance and/or Training

Education & Early Intervention

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

Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Limited English, Geographic Areas, Empowerment Zone, Urban

Single-County

N/A