The Disproportionality Series Part 2: A Conversation with Rachel Fish

The Disproportionality Series Part 2: A Conversation with Rachel Fish

February 3, 2026 · 56 min · Season 3 · Episode 10

About this episode

The episode explores disproportionality in special education with sociologist Rachel Fish, focusing on the impact of structural racism and social constructs.

In the 10th episode of Dive In’s third season, host Federico Waitoller continues with the disproportionality series. In this show, he explores the complex issue of disproportionality in special education with sociologist Rachel Fish. Fish discusses her research on how racial and linguistic minorities are disproportionately represented, examining the roles of structural racism and social constructs in this disparity. The conversation highlights different perspectives and methodologies, including both qualitative and quantitative research, to better understand this multifaceted issue. By considering factors like educational inequity and subjective diagnoses, the episode offers a nuanced take on how schools contribute to and perpetuate inequalities in special education settings. Episode Transcript

People in this episode

Host: Federico R. Waitoller

Guest: Rachel Fish

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Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Dive In, special education, sociologist

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