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In this episode of The Teacher’s Forum, David sits down with Dr. Latrisha Chattin to explore the realities of special education and its impact on students of color. From her personal journey growing up in North Philadelphia (05:09) to her leadership in the field, Dr. Chattin offers deep insight into what special education is (12:18), how students are identified (13:32), and the rights parents have under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)(25:42).

They discuss key distinctions between Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 plans (31:11), the problem of disproportionality (35:38), and the historical roots of mistrust among families of color (39:30). The episode closes with a focus on student self-advocacy, the challenges facing special ed teachers, and reasons for hope in the field.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or school leader, this is an essential conversation about access, stigma, and equity in education.

To contact Dr. Chattin vist her website at https://www.sageeduconsultants.com/ or email her at latrisha@sageeduconsultants.com

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• david@theteachersforum.org
• @theteachersforum.bsky.social
• X (formerly Twitter) @theforum1993

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