Full Description
Beyond Labels: Understanding Refugee Students with Disabilities in Educational Contexts is an essential text that provides educators with insight into the educational needs of refugee students with disabilities through six meticulously researched case studies and illuminates the complex relationship between displacement trauma and disability, from physical disabilities and dyslexia to autism and visual impairment. Beyond Labels offers evidence-based frameworks for differentiating between language acquisition challenges and learning disabilities, implementing culturally responsive assessments, and developing accommodations that respect both refugee experiences and disability-related needs. Each case study provides guidance on special education processes, family school partnerships, and classroom implementation strategies.
Educational professionals will find analysis of critical questions regarding cultural perspectives on disability, effective accommodation strategies, and ensuring educational continuity for students experiencing both displacement and disability. The text includes practical tools such as reflection questions, assessment guidelines, and strength-based intervention approaches.
This practical reference for special educators, ESL specialists, school psychologists, and administrators bridges refugee education and disability studies, creating new possibilities for supporting resilient yet vulnerable student populations.
Contents
Acknowledgments
Preface
Introduction
Section One
Comprehensive Case Studies: The Intersection of Refugee Experiences and Disability
Chapter 1: Amira: Navigating Physical Disabilities, Dyslexia, and Displacement in Inclusive Classrooms and Providing Strategies for Accommodation and Empowerment
Background
Early Life and Education in Bosnia
Displacement and Impact of War
The Resettlement Journey to the United States
Initial Educational Placement and Identification of Multiple Disabilities
Discovery of Dyslexia
Family Partnerships and Cultural Perspectives
Questions for Teacher Educators
References
Chapter 2: Amir: Understanding Neurodiversity and Creating Supportive Learning Environments for Students with Autism
Birth and Early Development in Detention
The Burmese Government and Persecution of the Rohingya
Family Advocacy and Cultural Preservation
Educational Experiences in Detention
Trauma and Its Intersection with Autism
Social Relationships and Community Integration
Educational Gaps and Lost Opportunities
Preparing for Transition
Resilience and Protective Factors
Future Possibilities and Concerns
Questions for Teacher Educators
References
Chapter 3: Zahra: Navigating Traumatic Brain Injury and Displacement—Supporting Refugee Students with Traumatic Brain Injury in Inclusive Classrooms: Strategies for Accommodation and Empowerment
Background
Early Life and Brain Injury in Rwanda
Displacement and Refugee Camp Experiences
Educational Experiences in the United States
Special Education Eligibility and Legal Framework
Cognitive Accommodations and Educational Strategies
Family Partnerships and Cultural Perspectives
Physical and Emotional Health Integration
Educational Implications
Questions for Teacher Educators
References
Chapter 4: Noor: Finding Expression—Supporting Students with Selective Mutism and Communication Differences
Background
Life in the Refugee Camp
Trauma-Informed Strategies for Classroom Participation
Resettlement in the United States
Transition to American Schools
Special Education Referral Process
Comprehensive Evaluation and Assessment
Eligibility Determination
Individualized Education Program Development
Implementation of Special Education Services
Family Dynamics and Cultural Adjustment
Reflections for Educators
Questions for Teacher Educators
References
Chapter 5: Adam and Aya: Third-Generation Palestinian Refugee Siblings Navigating Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy in Baddawi Refugee Camp
Background
Life in the Refugee Camp
Adam: Navigating Physical Disability
Aya: Managing Invisible Disability
Intersections of Disability and Refugee Experience
Educational Experiences and Adaptations
Family Dynamics and Support Systems
Dreams and Aspirations Amid Constraints
Resilience and Cultural Identity
Accessing Special Education Services When Relocation Happens
Challenges and Opportunities During This Process
Potential Services and Accommodations
Conclusion
Discussion Questions
References
Chapter 6: Maha's Journey: Supporting Students with Visual Impairment in Inclusive Classrooms
Background
Brief History of Wars in the Congo
Early Life in Congo and Disability Experience
Navigating Physical Barriers in Conflict-Affected Goma
Deteriorating Conditions and Displacement
The Refugee Resettlement Process
Arrival and Adaptation in the United States
Educational Experience in the United States
Special Education Eligibility in the American School System
Assistive Technology and Accessibility Accommodations
Conclusion: Maha's Transformative Journey
Questions for Teacher Educators
References
Conclusion
About the Author
Index
NOTE: Table of Contents subject to change up until publication date.
