Examining the impact of targeted DEIB lessons on the sense of belonging in Black, male-identifying, special education high school students: Challenges, outcomes, and future directions

This mixed methods study investigates the impact of targeted Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) lessons on the sense of belonging among Black, male-identifying, special education students in a Northeast Ohio suburban high school. Recognizing that these students often face compounded marginalization due to race, gender, and disability status, this research examines how DEIB initiatives, specifically through the Anti-Defamation League’s No Place for Hate program, influence their sense of inclusion and acceptance within the school environment. Utilizing pre- and post-intervention surveys, this study measures students' perceived belonging across various dimensions, including peer interactions, teacher support, and respect for identity differences. The findings reveal that while DEIB lessons fostered a generally positive school climate, Black, male-identifying, special education students reported lower levels of belonging compared to their peers. The results underscore the need for intersectional approaches in DEIB programming that address the unique challenges faced by students with overlapping marginalized identities. Implications for educational practice include more comprehensive teacher training, culturally responsive pedagogy, and expanded resources for inclusive classroom environments. Future research should explore longitudinal impacts of DEIB lessons on marginalized students’ educational outcomes, enhancing our understanding of how to create truly inclusive educational spaces.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ed.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Educ Policy, Orgzn & Leadrshp

Grantor

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2025

Author dc:creator

• Fishman, Kelly

Contributors dc:contributor

• Mason, Curtis
• Pak, Yoon
• Kang, Hyun-Sook
• Moton, Theopolies

• DEIB
• Diversity
• Equity
• Inclusion
• Belonging
• High school students
• Black male students
• Special education
• SPED

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2025 Kelly Fishman

Language dc:language

en, eng

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/129379

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/oai-pmh?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=etdms&identifier=oai%3Awww.ideals.illinois.edu%3A2142%2F129379